Bangkok International Airport buzzed with life — trolleys rolling, flight announcements echoing, and people rushing in every direction. Arin and his father stood near the boarding gate, checking their tickets one last time.
"All packed?" his father asked, glancing at Arin's overflowing carry-on.
Arin nodded, chuckling softly. "Yeah, yeah. I didn't forget anything this time, promise."
His father smiled. "Let's hope so."
After a while, the boarding announcement echoed through the speakers. They joined the line, handed their passports to the staff, and made their way inside the plane.
Arin placed his bag in the overhead cabin and took his seat. His father settled beside him.
The pilot's calm voice soon filled the cabin:
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome aboard. We'll be departing for New Delhi shortly. Please fasten your seatbelts and enjoy your flight."
The plane hummed softly, slicing through the ocean of clouds. Arin sat by the window, chin resting on his hand, watching sunlight paint golden lines across the sky.
I hope this India trip doesn't take too long… he thought, his breath fogging the glass slightly.
He smiled faintly, tracing invisible shapes on the window — his thoughts drifting between excitement and uncertainty.
After a few hours, the captain's voice echoed through the speakers.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we've arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. Welcome to India."
Arin's eyes lit up as he looked outside — the new city spreading beneath them like a painting, full of colors and life.
Stepping out of the airport, he inhaled deeply. The air felt different — a mix of spice, noise, and warmth.
"You look nervous, son," his father said with a teasing smile as they waited for their luggage.
Arin chuckled softly. "Just thinking how everything will go. New place, new people… feels strange but exciting too."
His father smiled, patting his shoulder. "You'll adjust faster than you think."
They chatted lightly while walking toward the exit. Outside, the city buzzed with horns and chatter, rickshaws zipping past like colors in motion.
After a short drive, they reached their hotel — a calm oasis hidden in the middle of chaos.
Both freshened up and decided to explore the dinner area downstairs.
The moment they entered, the smell hit them — spicy, buttery, and comforting. Waiters moved around quickly, offering them friendly smiles.
"Sir, you should try paneer tikka, butter naan, and dal makhani," one suggested with enthusiasm.
"Bring them all," Arin said, curious.
Soon, their table filled with colorful dishes — steam rising, aromas blending.
"Ohh, this is amazing!" Arin said, eyes wide as he took his first bite. "It's so rich — the flavors just explode in your mouth!"
His father laughed. "Told you Indian food would surprise you."
"I could eat this every day," Arin grinned. "Even the spice is perfect — like a tiny kick but it's fun."
They continued chatting as they ate — about the flight, the view from above the clouds, and Arin's excitement to explore.
Between bites, his father glanced up. "So, where are you going tomorrow?"
Arin blinked, fork mid-air. "What do you mean me? You're not coming with me? Your work starts tomorrow — we just landed, Dad!"
His father chuckled. "No time for that, young man. I have seminars in ten hospitals here in Delhi this month. After that, we'll move to Gujarat. I already spoke with a tourist guide — he'll pick you up tomorrow morning at nine. Explore around, okay?"
Arin frowned dramatically. "Dad, how are we supposed to travel together if you're always busy with work?"
His father smiled, sliding a piece of dosa onto Arin's plate. "Don't worry. Once we're in Gujarat, I'll have fewer seminars. We'll go sightseeing then — together."
Arin gave him a look. "You said fewer seminars, not no seminars. How many cities are we talking about exactly?"
"Hmm… Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, and Ahmedabad," his father replied, pretending to count.
Arin sighed loudly. "That's so many! Are we moving to Gujarat or what?"
His father laughed heartily. "It won't take forever, Arin. Rajkot and Surat first — just a month or so. Then two months in Ahmedabad and Vadodara. After that, we'll have time. I promise."
Arin leaned back, smiling a little. "Fine, I'll trust you this time.
His father laughed again, the warmth of the moment wrapping around them like the spices in the air. For the first time in a long while, everything felt… peaceful
The next morning 🌄
the city outside buzzed with life — honking cars, chatter, and the smell of street-side chai floating through the air.
Arin spent his first few days traveling across Delhi, guided by the tourist his father had arranged. From old monuments to modern cafés, every corner held something new.
The wind brushed his face as he stood near India Gate, camera in hand.
It feels… different here, he thought, smiling faintly. Maybe because I finally get to breathe a little.
he called Anan
"Guess where I am?" Arin said, camera on.
Anan squinted at the screen. "You better not say some place fancy again."
"Delhi," Arin replied proudly. "And I tried something called chaat. Bro, it was chaos in my mouth!"
Anan burst out laughing. "Yeah, that's the point! Don't forget to post the food photos. The fans will love 'Travel Boy Arin'."
"Shut up," Arin said, smiling. "How's everyone doing?"
"Same old. Fah's shooting another project, Kanya's complaining about the heat again."
"Tell her Delhi's hotter," Arin said, laughing softly before ending the call.
The guide pointed toward a crowded stall. "Sir, you must try this — golgappa!
Very famous!"
Arin laughed, watching a group of kids giggling as they popped the spicy water balls into their mouths. "Alright, why not?"
The moment the first one hit his tongue, his eyes widened. "Whoa— it's sweet, then spicy, then… I don't even know what!"
The guide chuckled. "That's India, sir — everything at once."
After a few days, his father's work settled into a rhythm — seminars in the mornings, calls in the evenings, but somehow, he always made time for Arin.
On weekends, they explored together — temples, markets, and little cafés hidden in narrow streets.
One afternoon, as they walked near Lodhi Gardens, Arin turned to him with a smile. "You know, you could've just stayed busy with your work, but you still make time for me. You didn't have to."
His father looked at him gently. "That's what fathers do, Arin. We don't find time for our children. We make it."
Arin's smile softened. "Guess I'm lucky, huh?"
His father chuckled. "I'd say I'm the lucky one."
They sat under a tree, the breeze cool against their skin, and for a while, neither spoke — just the calm silence of shared peace.
A Month Later ⌚
The days passed quickly — a blur of food, laughter, and long drives. Delhi began to feel almost like home.
One evening, as Arin packed his suitcase, his father called out from the other side of the room, already folding his shirts neatly.
"Don't forget anything. Our flight for Rajkot is tomorrow at 8 a.m."
Arin groaned, lying on the bed. "Ugh, Dad… just promise you'll wake me up. Otherwise, I'm definitely missing that flight."
His father laughed softly. "I'll believe that. You'd sleep through an earthquake if you could."
"Okay, but make sure you wake me up," Arin said while yawning.
His dad smiled. "Don't worry. I'll drag you out of bed if I have to."
Arin grinned, stretching lazily. "So how was your seminar today? The hospital one?"
His father smiled with pride. "It went well. The doctors here are sharp, very curious. One even asked me about Thailand's healthcare system. I think they learned a lot."
"That's awesome, Dad. I told you, you're a pro at this."
"And you?" his father asked. "Did you enjoy your last day in Delhi?"
"Yeah," Arin said with a small smile. "Went to a local art market. Bought some bracelets for Anan's sisters. Also met a group of college students — they thought I was from Korea!"
His father laughed out loud. "You? Korean? Maybe it's the hairstyle."
"Maybe," Arin chuckled, his eyes half-closed. "It's been a good month, huh?"
"It has," his father said quietly, turning off the lamp. "Now get some rest. Tomorrow's another journey."
Arin lay there in the dim light, staring at the ceiling. Another journey, he thought. Maybe… another beginning too.
Before he knew it, he drifted off to sleep.
The Next Morning 🌅
"Good morning, son," his father said softly, tapping Arin's shoulder.
Arin blinked awake and stretched, a sleepy smile forming. "Morning, Dad."
"Time to get ready for our journey," his father said warmly.
Arin nodded and got up, heading to the bathroom to take a quick shower. After freshening up, he packed the last of his things and zipped his bag.
"All set?" his father asked, glancing at him with a smile.
"Yeah, ready," Arin replied, hoisting the suitcase.
They locked the hotel door behind them and made their way to the airport. The morning sunlight spilled across the streets, glinting off the car windows as they drove.
At the airport, they completed check-in and security smoothly. Arin found his window seat, settled in, and watched the busy terminal around him.
"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking…" the pilot's voice announced over the intercom. Arin pressed his forehead lightly against the window, watching the city fade below.
After a few hours, the plane touched down in Rajkot, Gujarat.
Warm air greeted them as they stepped outside. The streets were calmer than Delhi — colorful, vibrant, yet peaceful..
🌅 The Next Morning
Rajkot Journey Begins
The next morning, sunlight slipped through the curtains, spreading warmth across the room. Arin blinked his eyes open, stretching his arms with a lazy yawn.
He sat up, rubbing his hair. "Guess I actually woke up early for once," he mumbled to himself with a faint smile.
After a quick shower and breakfast, he grabbed his camera, slung his small bag across his shoulder, and stepped out of the hotel room.
His dad was already in the lobby, talking to someone over a call about the day's seminar. When he noticed Arin, he ended the call and smiled.
"Good morning, son. You're up early today."
"Miracles happen, Dad," Arin said with a grin.
His dad chuckled. "I'm glad. I've got to head to the hospital soon, but what about you? Planning to explore today?"
"Yeah," Arin said, his voice bright. "There's a lake nearby, and the hotel staff mentioned some street markets too. I'll start from there."
"Good," his father nodded. "Just stay careful, and eat something decent — not only those street snacks."
Arin laughed. "No promises."
☀️ Later That Day — Around Rajkot
Rajkot was buzzing with life. The streets were colorful — auto rickshaws honking, vendors calling out, the smell of masala tea blending with fresh flowers from nearby stalls.
Arin strolled through the local market, camera in hand, clicking random pictures — of people smiling, kids running with kites, and women bargaining with wide hand gestures.
A shopkeeper waved at him. "Sir! Try this! Gujarati special snack — khaman dhokla!"
Arin smiled politely. "Why not?" He took a bite, his eyes lighting up. "Oh wow… this is really good! Soft and tangy — never had something like this."
The shopkeeper grinned proudly. "See, sir? Gujarat ka magic!"
Arin chuckled, handing the man some cash. "You're right — it's magic."
He continued walking, recording small clips for fun. Occasionally, he'd speak to his camera like he was vlogging.
"So today I'm in Rajkot, and trust me — people here are too friendly. Every turn smells like food, every face smiles like sunshine. I might just move here!"
He laughed at himself and turned the camera off.
🌇 Evening — Back at the Hotel
By evening, he returned to the hotel. His dad was already there, removing his tie and looking exhausted yet content.
"How was your day, traveler?" his dad asked, pouring two glasses of water.
"Honestly?" Arin said, plopping onto the sofa. "It was amazing. I tried this thing called khaman dhokla—so soft, it just melts in your mouth. And I met this shopkeeper who kept giving me free samples because he said my smile brings good luck."
His dad laughed warmly. "You already made friends here, huh?"
"Maybe I'm just too charming," Arin teased, and they both laughed.
His dad then leaned back. "My seminars went well too. The doctors here are kind — and curious about you, actually. Someone even said they saw you in that drama from last year."
Arin grinned. "See? I'm famous even in hospitals now."
They both burst into laughter.
After dinner, they sat on the balcony for a while, watching the city lights shimmer across the skyline. The air was soft, warm, and quiet — the kind that makes conversations flow easily.
"You know," his dad said thoughtfully, "it feels good — traveling together again. It's been a long time."
Arin smiled faintly. "Yeah… I missed this too, Dad."
For a few moments, neither spoke. They just sat there, side by side — father and son, finding peace in the simple rhythm of shared silence.
Over the next few weeks, Arin's father continued his seminars while Arin explored the city — temples glowing in evening light, street stalls selling fafda-jalebi, children laughing as they ran by.
Arin loved how friendly everyone was. The hotel staff always greeted him like family, and local vendors insisted he try something new each time.
One evening, sitting on a low balcony as the town settled for the night, Arin called Anan.
"Bro, Gujarat's food is next-level. And people here? They smile like they've known you forever," Arin said once, grinning into his phone.
Anan laughed on the other end. "Told you, you'd fit right in anywhere."
Anan's voice was fond."Don't forget to tell fans you miss us when you post photos."
Arin laughed. "Yeah, yeah. I'll make sure you get the credit for recommending the best snacks."
His father listened from the doorway, smiling. "You're learning to enjoy the small things."
Arin looked up at him. "Maybe that's the point of this break."
His father nodded. "Maybe it is."
Arin leaned back, eyes drifting toward the stars.
Yeah, he thought, maybe this trip isn't just about travel… maybe it's about finding something new — in me.
The next few days passed in a steady rhythm — seminars for Arin's father, sightseeing for Arin, and small shared moments in between.
In Rajkot, they spent the first morning walking through the old city streets. The sun cast a golden glow over the colorful buildings, and the aroma of fresh spices filled the air.
"Son, try this," his father said, handing him a small snack from a street vendor. "It's a local specialty — completely different from what we get back home."
Arin took a bite and grinned. "Wow… this is amazing! How do you eat something so spicy first thing in the morning?"
His father chuckled. "It's all about the thrill, son. You'll get used to it."
They strolled through the markets, laughing at the occasional curious glances from locals. Arin tried bargaining for souvenirs, often failing in playful ways, while his father shook his head with an amused smile.
After a few wonderful days in Rajkot, it was time to say goodbye.
Arin zipped up the last of his bags, checking carefully to make sure nothing was forgotten. His father was already handling the hotel check-out and making sure their luggage was secured in the car.
"Looks like we're off to Surat next," his father said, adjusting the straps on one of their suitcases.
"Yeah… I can't believe how fast these days flew," Arin replied, tugging his bag closer. "I'm going to miss this city already."
"You'll miss the food more than the city," his father teased. "Don't think I didn't notice how many fafda-jalebi you had yesterday."
Arin laughed, shaking his head. "I can't help it, Dad! It was too good."
The cab they had booked arrived, and they loaded the luggage carefully. The driver, a cheerful man with a friendly smile, greeted them.
"Good morning, sir! Are you ready for Surat?" he asked.
"Yes, thank you," Arin's father said warmly. "It's our first time traveling this way. Hope the ride is smooth."
Arin smiled at the driver. "Don't worry, I'll keep him entertained," he said, nudging his father playfully.
The journey began, the car winding through the highways. Arin gazed out the window at the passing scenery — green fields, small towns, and villages coming alive under the morning sun.
"Are you nervous for the next city?" his father asked, leaning back in his seat.
"Not really… just excited," Arin replied. "I've seen some new places, met some interesting people, but I'm curious what Surat has in store."
His father nodded. "Then let's make the most of it."
In Surat, the duo spent the morning walking along the Tapi riverfront, enjoying the soft breeze. Arin was fascinated by the old textile markets, the vibrant colors and patterns of silk fabrics drawing him in.
"Look at this, Dad! I've never seen colors like this in one place," Arin said, running his fingers over a neatly folded piece of fabric.
His father smiled warmly. "You see, son… every place has its own charm. You just need to notice it."
Later, they found a small street café. Over chai and freshly made snacks, Arin asked, "So… how do you manage all these seminars and still find time to enjoy the cities?"
His father sipped his chai. "Experience, son. And I want to share some of it with you too. That's why I brought you along."
Arin smiled quietly, feeling a warmth in his chest. "Thanks, Dad. I'm really glad I came with you."
The next few days in Surat passed in a steady rhythm — Arin exploring the city while his father focused on seminars. They met in the evenings to share meals, talk about the day, and laugh over small adventures.
Finally, it was time to pack and move on to Ahmedabad.
Arin was sitting on the hotel bed, folding his clothes, while his father arranged the luggage.
"Can you believe we came to India with just two luggage?" Arin said with a grin, holding a bundle of souvenirs. "By the time we're done here, we'll need at least seven to eight!"
His father laughed. "I know! With all the snacks, souvenirs, and fabrics you're buying… I don't even know how we'll fit it all in the car."
Arin tossed a small packet of sweets into the bag. "I told you — I have zero self-control when it comes to food. And these street snacks from Rajkot and Surat… irresistible!"
"You've eaten enough fafda-jalebi and gathiya to open a shop," his father teased, shaking his head with a smile.
"I'm just collecting memories in edible form," Arin shot back playfully.
Once the last bags were zipped and locked, they stepped into the car that would take them to Ahmedabad.
The driver, a cheerful man, greeted them warmly. "Good morning, sir! Off to Ahmedabad, right?"
"Yes, thank you," Arin's father replied. "It's a long drive — hope traffic isn't too bad."
The car began moving, winding along the highway. Green fields and small towns passed by, dotted with morning activity.
"So… are you ready for Ahmedabad?" his father asked, adjusting his seat.
"Yeah… but honestly, I'm still thinking about all the food we've tried here," Arin replied, laughing. "Fafda, gathiya, sweets from Rajkot and Surat… how am I supposed to carry all this in my luggage without exploding?"
His father chuckled. "You'll figure it out. That's the joy of traveling — unexpected surprises and plenty of treats."
The driver smiled in the rearview mirror. "You boys sure do like your snacks! Looks like this will be a fun journey."
Arin laughed, nudging his father again. "Exactly! Just wait until Ahmedabad — new city, new food, and hopefully more memories."
During the drive, they chatted casually — about the seminars, funny incidents in Rajkot and Surat, and the people they'd met along the way. The banter kept the ride lively, and Arin's father occasionally pointed out interesting sights along the highway.
By mid-afternoon, they arrived in Ahmedabad after their road trip from Surat. The car slowed, and Arin watched the city streets pass by, alive with energy.
"Finally… Ahmedabad," he muttered, stretching in his seat.
His father smiled. "Yes, son. Let's check in first, then have lunch before the day slips away."
After checking into their hotel, they enjoyed a hearty lunch. The spices, flavors, and aromas reminded Arin of Surat and Rajkot.
"This is amazing… but I'm going to miss all those street snacks already," Arin said, grinning.
"You've been eating too much of them," his father teased. "I wouldn't be surprised if you tried to smuggle some into the car."
Arin laughed. "Maybe just a little."
After lunch, they both decided to take a short nap. The room was quiet, sunlight spilling softly through the curtains.
A couple of hours later, Arin's father stirred first. Stretching, he checked his phone and handled a few seminar calls, confirmed schedules for tomorrow, and quickly organized things. Once done, he gently shook Arin awake.
"Son, time to get up. Let's make the most of the evening," his father said with a warm smile.
Arin yawned and stretched. "Already? Feels like I just closed my eyes."
"You need your energy for some Ahmedabad exploring," his father teased.
After freshening up, they stepped out into the streets. Vibrant fabrics, the aroma of local spices, and the hustle of the markets surrounded them. They laughed over a shopkeeper trying to sell Arin a tiny statue and sampled some street snacks along the way.
"Try this, son," his father said, handing him a small bite. "Locals swear by it."
Arin grinned. "Wow… so different from Surat, but delicious!"
After a few hours of casual shopping and strolling through the lively streets, they returned to the hotel for dinner. The quiet meal gave them a chance to
reflect on the day's experiences.
Once dinner was done, Arin decided to take a night walk alone. He found a patch of soft grass near the hotel garden and lay down, looking up at the sky. Thoughts of Rajkot, Surat, and the people he had met swirled in his mind.
So fast… it feels like we just arrived in India, and now we're already moving to Ahmedabad. Time really does fly.
The wind ruffled his hair as he took a deep breath. Ahmedabad… I wonder what stories this city will hold.
After a few minutes, he got up, pulled out his AirPods, and let music fill his ears as he headed back to the hotel.
Once inside, he unpacked just enough for the night, took a refreshing shower, and slid under the sheets. The city lights twinkled outside his window, a quiet reminder that tomorrow would bring new adventures.
Tomorrow is a new day… and I'm ready for it, he thought, drifting into sleep.
A/N : Hey guys! 🌸 Destiny is slowly bringing them closer — first the same country, and now… the same city. Let's see how their first encounter unfolds! 💖
I'm really sorry for the delay in posting. College and studies have started, so I had to adjust my schedule. But now, I'm excited to let you know that new parts will be uploaded every Sunday. Don't worry, I'll make sure each part is more detailed and lengthy, so you get the full experience. Stay tuned for all the twists and turns ahead! ✨
Thank you so much for reading! Your comments, votes, and love mean the world to me — they keep me motivated to write more and bring the story to life💕.