The news about Niyati Sharma slowly spread through the school. The principal read the diary, confirmed the story, and made an announcement in assembly.
Every student sat quietly as the principal spoke.
"Years ago, a student named Niyati Sharma was believed to have run away. But the truth is far more painful. She didn't run. She was forgotten… and left behind. Thanks to ten brave girls from class 9, the truth has come out. We will be building a small memorial in her name, so she's never forgotten again."
Applause filled the ground. Some students even had tears in their eyes.
Prajwal sat with her friends, looking around in disbelief. "We really did it."
Akshada grinned. "Yep. We're famous now!"
"I swear I saw the head girl give us a proud nod," Rutuja whispered.
"She did!" Apurva giggled. "Swarali almost turned red."
"I did not!" Swarali said, hiding her face.
Anushka cracked a joke, "I should've worn my shades. Too many emotional scenes today."
Akshara laughed, "Next time bring popcorn too."
Darshana added, "I'm just happy we aren't getting haunted anymore."
Srushti nodded. "Yeah. The basement feels... calm now. Like she's finally at peace."
Swara, who had been quiet, said, "She's proud of us. I can feel it."
They all smiled. For the first time in days, there was no fear, no anxiety. Just peace.
During their last extra class before summer break, the teacher surprised them with a little celebration—ice cream and snacks in the classroom.
"For being brave, honest, and working as a team," the teacher said, placing cups on their desks. "You girls made history."
They cheered like kids, because for a moment, they were just that—kids again.
That evening, they visited the school garden where a small marble stone had been placed.
"In memory of Niyati Sharma – A voice never heard, but never forgotten."
Prajwal stepped closer and whispered, "We'll remember you."
Akshada placed a flower near the stone. "Rest well, girl."
Rutuja wiped a tear. "Thank you… for choosing us."
Apurva and Swarali stood silently, their hands clasped.
Anushka said quietly, "She's not a ghost anymore. She's a story."
Akshara added, "And we'll tell it."
Darshana clicked a photo of the memorial. "To remember always."
Srushti muttered, "Sleep peacefully, Niyati."
Swara whispered, "You're finally free."
They stayed there until the sun dipped behind the building, casting a soft orange glow on the memorial stone.
It was the last day of school before summer break.
The last bell had rung.
And something in the air felt complete.
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