Pagli sat on the worn wooden bench by the pond, her eyes closed as she let the memories of her childhood wash over her. She could almost hear the laughter of her younger self and Istiyak as they played by the water's edge, their voices resonating like an echo. How simple life seemed back then, filled with dreams and endless possibilities.

Pagli opened her eyes and gazed at the pond, wondering aloud, "How did we let those dreams slip away, Istiyak?" The question lingered in the air, unanswered yet profound, as if the old pond itself held secrets of their shared past.

Istiyak had been her closest friend, her confidant. They would sit by the pond for hours, sharing secrets and dreams, imagining what their future might hold. Pagli remembered Istiyak's laughter, a sound that seemed to blend perfectly with the rustling leaves and the gentle waves of the pond.

Pagli wondered where Istiyak was now. Had life taken them too far apart? "Perhaps he's still dreaming by another pond," she mused softly, hoping that somewhere, Istiyak was thinking of her too.

Istiyak appeared, his silhouette framed by the moonlight. "Pagli," he called softly, his voice carrying the warmth of their shared memories. "I've missed these moments."

Pagli smiled, her heart swelling with joy. "I never thought I'd see you here again," she confessed, feeling both relieved and grateful. "Some dreams never fade," Istiyak replied, and together they sat by the pond, as if no time had passed, their laughter mingling with the night air once more.