Love is in the Air

All the girls started giggling and were asking each other to start first. We all asked ‘Kala’ to start with as she got married recently. “Me?? Oh No. I can’t.” She said in a shy tone. Everyone in the class shouted “Kala.. Kala”. Now, she has no choice but to start. 

“Hello all. I never gave thought of who are special to me or who is special in my life. As you all say that there will be someone special in every individual’s life, May be I too have one I guess. But, I didn’t realize it till now.” She paused for a minute. 

All are very surprised to hear her like this. Her face is like she had found something strange. We all waited for her to say it.

“I never used to express my thoughts with my parents. It might be because of the environment at our home. Right from the beginning, there were some set of rules in our family that were not meant to cross especially women and kids. I never questioned anyone about this. Simply I followed it as a tradition. There were times, when I and my brother wanted to oppose them. But, when we see our dad, we move behind my mom. Now I feel all that was really funny. 

When my dad brought a marriage proposal for me, everyone was so happy except me. They didn’t ask me anything. I cried saying to my mom that I don’t want to marry that guy. My mom was worried hearing me like that. She said that if I reject this proposal, I won’t get any proposals in future and I may remain unmarried. At that time I felt, that will be the best thing that can ever happen to me. I didn’t know how to express myself with my dad. In a few days all the course of marriage came to an end. Marriage date got fixed. 

Eventually relatives everyone started visiting my house. Everyone is busy. Even I gave up the thought of breaking the marriage and started getting used to that environment at home. One day I heard that groom wanted to meet me and talk to me personally. We met at our home only. He talked to me politely. He asked me many questions like my interests, dislikes etc. I didn’t answer any of his with wholeheartedly. I was so afraid. I felt he was like a teacher more than to a life partner. I didn’t ask him anything. 

He might have read my mind, so finally he said ‘What are you afraid of? I am also a person like you. We both are going to live our rest of our lives together. I want you to trust me, and not to worry much. I promise you to keep happy forever and ever’. Then he left.

There I had got the first impression on him. ‘Good Person’ I thought. Somewhere in my heart, I felt a kind of relief for the first time after this marriage proposal. I felt like I trusted his words. After marriage, not only he, whole family is so good. I feel like I am blessed to get a family like that. His brother is more like to my own brother. From the first day, he was so nice to me. I felt like, I never missed my brother. I loved my husband from the day of our marriage. But, Now I realized he is the special one in my life. I am going to tell him today.” She said and smiled in shy. 

Everyone in the hall clapped so loudly and started shouting. Few of our friends, didn’t know his name. So, all shouted asking her to say his name. “Karthik Kumar” she smiled. 

Later we all came to know that he even started making arrangements for her higher studies. We all felt very happy for her. 
Then, it is boys turn. We all turned to boys wondering who might be the next. 

Everyone was started making fun of Abhinav. We girls didn’t get any idea what it was we were missing. Abhinav was so shy in our earlier days. He doesn’t talk to girls much. But, what is it now with Abinav? Suddenly all the boys started gathering around him and pushing him to face the class. It seems he found something special in his life. We were surprised. We all are waiting to hear him. He was shy again as like in our school days. He smiled and when he was about to start, Rohit shouted from somewhere in the group… “SHALINI”.

Suddenly everyone in the hall busted in to laughs. Shalini? Who is she? We girls were confused. But, I thought she must be the girl whom he feels something special. Again all the boys shouted when Abhinav started blushing. This is really funny to see a guy feeling so shy and also becoming all red by blushing.

We girls started to tease him… “Ohhhh…!”

“Ok. Ok. . Let him speak. Our Abhinav had finally got something special in his life. Let him share with us friends.” Rohit made this announcement and made everyone silent. 

“Hi all. This is really embarrassing for me. I feel so uncomfortable. But, this has come till you. There is nothing I can hide and I can’t lie to you about this. Me and Rohit had gone to same college so, he knew about this. Now, he is the person started broadcasting the news to all as soon as we came here. He is acting like reporter who is spreading the unknown news to all the others to increase his trp ratings. Otherwise I wouldn’t have told this myself.” 

I don’t know what he is trying to explain, but I didn’t understand anything. What is he going to say about? I feel like he is putting all of us in suspense. 

“It’s ok boss. Get into the matter. Who is Shalini?” Supriya shouted on behalf of all the girls. Even she too couldn’t tolerate the suspense it seems. I laughed at her words. Abhinav remembered that he was there to say about something special. He was till now dragging the story to different direction.

Abhinav started again clearing his throat. 

“Shalini was a student of VNR Junior college. I was from St.Johns Junior college. We both had our second year practical exams in same college. She was my partner in both chemistry and physics lab exams. On the first day, I just came to know about her name. We finished our exam and we left. We didn’t talk much. But, the next day she forgot her hall ticket below the table where we did practicals. She might have dropped it when her exam sheet fell down. By the time I tried to find her to give it, she wasn’t there at any of my sight. Without this hall-ticket she can’t write the main exams. If she got to know about her missing hall-ticket, she can rush to her college and get the duplicate one. 

But what if she didn’t check and go to exam hall directly again tomorrow and found it missing, she may feel panic. And me being known everything, I should not ignore this. I thought like this and went to my co-ordinator. I explained him everything and asked him if he can help me. He asked me to find out any of the person from the same college. 

I found a girl, and asked her to give the hall-ticket to Shalini. That girl told that she was having her examinations at different college (different centre from Shalini). I came to know that one of my friends is having his exams at the same college where Shalini is going to have. Based upon the roll number, he went directly to her class and gave it to her. Same as I thought she didn’t check her hall-ticket. She thought a folded paper in her purse is her hall-ticket. After exam, my friend told me that everything went fine and she said thanks. I felt good. Later in the evening I got a call. It was her. “Hi. This is Shalini””

“I was shocked to hear that name.I know only one Shalini whom I thought only about her hall-ticket since two days. Later I forgot or I thought I forgot. I didn’t expect a call like this. 

“Oh Hi. This is Abhinav.” I said, thinking what to say more than that.

“I know Abhinav. I took this number with your friend. I am not calling you at wrong time. Am I?” She asked me politely. 

“No No. It’s fine. Tell me what is it?” I asked her wondering why she had called me. 

“Thank you so much that you had sent my hall-ticket. Otherwise I would have been in a big trouble today morning. It had reached me at right time. I didn’t even check that you know. I am fool. I don’t know since when I have been become this careless. Thank you so much once again.” She was thanking me in her own flow. I didn’t hear her like this before even though we took our exams together, we were silent all of the time. 

“Hey it’s ok. You don’t have to thank me so much. I know how important it is for you. I thought you might miss to check that and feel bad on your exam. I didn’t want that to happen. So, I made sure that it should reach you safely. It was all your luck that I had seen it at the bench that day. That’s it. I didn’t do anything great.” I said.

“Whatever, you saved me. I am thankful for that. That’s it. Anyways, how did you write your exam?” She asked me.

“Good. It was easy. How about you?” I asked her. 

“Good. This is my dad’s number. You can save this number as my contact” She said. 

I wondered why I would need her contact. 

“Ok. This is my personal number.” I said not knowing why I said that. 

“Ok. Nice talking to you. All the best for your exams. Bye” She said.

“Yeah. You too do well. Bye” I said and I hung up first. 

She had just called me to thank me. I said to myself and moved on with my studies. But, this didn’t stop here. I got a message everyday from her dad’s number wishing me all the best. I never sent her a reply. After finishing the exam she would call me and ask me about my exam. I will also ask her the same. There wasn’t any other discussion between us. It has become a routine conversation which I started looking forward to it, even though it was the same conversation and the same message. This happened for two to three weeks. 

After exams I waited for her message or call, I didn’t get anything. I could have called but, I was afraid thinking his dad may pick the call wondering what can I talk to him. Eventually, I forgot about her. Nearly after one or two months, I got a call from unknown number. 
“Hi. This is Shalini”. 

I smiled. Again, I knew only one Shalini. I don’t know why I was happy. I feel like I have got something back which I was missing. 
“This is my new number. Today onwards you can contact me to this.” She said as if understanding my problem why I haven’t sent a message or why I haven’t called. 

I was so relieved thinking that I don’t have to think much to talk to her. She is just one call far to me. Since then we had shared many things. There is no day had passed without talking to her. Later we both wanted to join in a same college. We were in same class. She was there in all my hurdles and happiness. We became best buddies. She comes to my home often even though I had gone to her home very few times. 

Even my mom liked her very much. In fact, it is my mom who told me about Shalini that she likes me very much and she asked me to confirm from my side. Till then I didn’t see her in that way. But, I thought a boy and a girl can never be the same buddies in all their life. I was afraid to miss her. I wanted our relation to be forever. So, I had proposed her. She too was happy and said yes. Luckily, our castes are also same and we didn’t have to struggle a lot. Since 3-4yrs our families had known each other, we got the positive answer from them too.” 

“So, this is it. She is special to me. I didn’t plan anything like this. She just came in to my life like a miracle. The moment I had found her hall-ticket it is much more special moment than anything else.” Abhinav ended by this making all of us to come back to the present. 

“One last question Abhinav.” Said supriya. 

“Yes, please!!” Abhinav replied.

“One last question Abhinav.” Said supriya. 

“Yes, please!!” Abhinav replied.

“Being a girl I can assume that she still have that Hall-ticket safely with her. She might have a kept that as a memory to your relation. Am I right? Who have it now?” She asked smiling at her question.

“Yes. You are right Supriya. She still has it. She won’t give it to me as she was afraid to miss it again although there are no more exams” He said in a playful voice smiling brightly.

Everyone in the class clapped so loud with joy. Everyone was so happy to hear him saying like this. Definitely this day is going to be memorable for us all.

“When is the marriage dude?!!” Shouted Harsha from back side. 

“Why so hurry dude? It will take long time. Will let you know for sure.” Abhinav replied and came back to his seat.

“Someone from girls?” Rohit asked reminding our turn. 

“Hey, our Mother Tanmayi wasn’t talking much. Why? What happened??” Rohit started teasing Tanmayi.

 Tanmayi is our other friend. She used to go to orphanage and an old age home once in a week when we were in school. She would even miss our special classes but, she won’t miss going there. We can’t find her on Saturday’s and Sunday’s. Additional to that all over the week she will be blabbering about the things she did in weekend there and the things she is going to do in next weekends. It will be all about serving those people.

At first everyone appreciated her. But, later on that we really got fed up of her activities. We got bored of her routine words. So, Boys nick named her as ‘Mother Tanmayi’ seeing her service. It was fun to them teasing her like that. Then also she didn’t feel bad and she didn’t stop her activities. I liked her work and I appreciated it in my heart.

 

“What do you want me to say?” asked Tanmayi.

 

“Let’s talk about the same thing what everyone is talking now. What is it in your life which gave a special meaning?” Rohit asked.

“Hmm… There is no one like that. I don’t know” Tanmayi started to escape. But, Rohit won’t leave her like that.

“What mam, in all these years, didn’t you find a single thing in your life like that made you feel special? It might be anything. I know you would have felt that. Now come here and think for a while. Then you can start.” He said in his cheerful way showing her the way to face the class.

Tanmayi who have no other option slowly got up and came to front. 

“Ok Friends. I do have some happiest moments in my life. But, the special moment you were asking hasn’t come yet it seems. I didn’t feel in that way so far. So, I could just share my future plans with you for a while as I can’t disappoint you guys.” Tanmayi said.

“Yeah. That’s good.” one or two in the group replied as an approval.

 “Currently I am doing my MBA. My ambition is to start a business. It is hotel business. In five years I should own a group of hotels. There should be at least one hotel at each village which can serve food at a very least cost. I don’t want any person dying because of hunger. This is my dream since my childhood and so far I tried my best to reach it. When I explained about this to my parents after my 10th class, they were very much pleased hearing my thoughts. I had seen people, kids many others dying because of no proper food.

I really got disturbed by listening to the people who suffered in pain. Food, Shelter and Clothes are the basic needs for a person to live. I want to help the needy a bit from my side. This is my future plan.” She finished.

We don’t know what to say. We thought she is crazy when she says about her orphanage visits. We teased her. But, No one saw her heart. No one had listened to her with interest. If we would have listened to her thoughts before, we would have definitely understood her a long time back. Even today is not so late to appreciate her.

I was the first to stand and clap for her. Everyone in the class felt so happy. They shouted in joy. “Mother Tanmayi, You are great”. This time they meant it. She was happily smiling. May be now she felt this minute as special or she had already found her special moments in orphanage itself. But, she didn’t realize it. I think the special moment in her life will occur when her dream is fulfilled. I will wait till she realizes that. We all wished her good luck.

“How come you didn’t share this with us for these many years? When did you decide this?” Harsha asked her.

“I don’t know when I decided. Since childhood I was very much interested in gardening. But, my house was so small and we didn’t have many plants to water them. In front of our house there was that old age home which had a big garden. I used to go there and spent my evenings there helping the people while gardening. Slowly, I got know about their whereabouts. They treated me as like their grandchild. Later, I started visiting orphanage also. At both the places I felt some strange feeling like missing something. 

After school, When I was in intermediate I had joined some voluntary organizations to serve my best. There I learnt about my interests. I joined some groups and started visiting all the orphanages and all, still I felt incomplete. There were funds, charities, and missionaries etc to help them. But, still there are many needy people who are suffering outside the organizations. I thought of doing something for them which will let them live like others. Hope my dream would make me complete this time.” Saying this she came back to her seat. We all wished her good luck again. 

I was still in surprise thinking that how great my friends have become. 
“Now, Raghu is here my friends. He wants to share something special with us.” Rohit announced.

 “Hi all. Hope everyone is doing fine. First of all I wish our Tanamyi, a very good luck. She is really great and our lord will stay beside her all the time in her good deeds. And of course we too are with you to complete your dream.” He told to Tanmayi.

“Thanks Raghu.” She replied from the group.

“Well. I was here in this school with you for only 2yrs. I had joined in 9th class. But, I feel I had lot of fun than my previous schools. When I heard about this get-together, I decided that I should not miss it. I am hearing a lot about everyone’s interests and also special moments. I am very glad that I didn’t miss this day. Coming to my special moments, there are many. Mine is also more like Abhinav’s.” He took a deep breath before starting. Meanwhile we all started to shout “Ohhhh..!!!!” showing our interest to listen to one more love story. 

“Yeah. Even I feel the same when I think about it.” He laughed and said.

“Go on boss.” Rajesh shouted with impatience as he was eager to listen to it.

“I was a playful kid at schools. Because of my father’s job, our family didn’t stay at one place for more than 2yrs. When I get used to one school and the kids there, my dad would get the transferagain and I leave the school hoping I will get good friends like now in the next school. I never got close to any friend emotionally, as I know that I won’t be there for more than couple of years. I treated everyone as the same. There were no particular best friends to me. I only share my deep feelings with my sister and my mom if there are any. 

After my 10th class, my dad again got transfer. I joined my intermediate in a private college. Though my parents were in the same town, I preferred to stay in hostel. Even my dad felt the same. Though my mom was against to this, she packed all my things without saying much. I felt little bad but I assured her that I would be coming home often. 
Two years in hostel was completely fun. I started enjoying college life, as my grades started to fall. I maintained average marks for which my dad was not at all satisfied. He asked me to change my college but I didn’t pay much attention. 

After two years, He suddenly showed up in our college talking to our principal. I don’t know how he made it, the next minute I was out of my college with my luggage. I thought he might have got transfer and told the same to principal. I didn’t speak to him as I was so angry upon him for doing this to me. I know he won’t listen to me whatever I say. I silently followed him to house, went to my mom and asked what was going on. She said we were moving out of town. I hated the transfers. I talked to my mom that I wanted to stay at one place from now onwards and I got sick of moving places. I had talked to my mom and dad about this. 

Finally, my dad said yes only upon one condition. They can again send me to hostel only if I change the college and study well. That was really good enough to me. I accepted it. 

As I had finished my Inter exams, I joined in other college for short term coaching. This time my dad chose the college, where I should not meet my previous college friends. He thinks that because of my friends, my grades are down. This coaching is for only one month. I thought to give my best in this one month and later in B.Tech, I wanted to get into good college and start having fun for four complete years at one place. So, first day I felt myself interested in class. I studied well that night till late hours. This happened for one week. 

After a week, again I felt bore. First class was Maths, in ten minutes class will end. But, I am not feeling to attend the next class Chemistry. Before lecture came to my class, I slowly slipped out of my class and went to roam around the campus. Our principal caught me and asked me why am I out of my class at this time. I told that I was thirsty. He asked me to have water and go back to my class. I went to drink water as he was still watching me. As I crossed my way, he left from there. I felt irritated. 

When I reached the corner, there was a girl who was trying to fill up her bottle. She was wearing white dress but her dupatta was yellow. There were some bells swinging at the edge of it. I thought who in the world wears such a combination. She was facing some problem to turn the tap. I thought of waiting for her to ask me. She didn’t notice me. So, I thought to make time pass there also. But, she was taking much time. I got irritated and said 

“Excuse me, Shall I help you?”

Hearing me suddenly she was startled it seems, she did something and moved leaving the tap broken. All the water started to fly high like a water fountain. I tried to close that as soon as possible. But, I only got wet in fighting to save water. 

After few minutes, I heard someone shouting at me, he came near me with a cloth and we both closed it tight. That was a guy from our mess. He asked me why I had broke it. I said that it was not me and when I turned to face her, she was not there. I was puzzled thinking whether I had any dream. But, I later found that she left me there. I got angry and wondered that’s why people might call them as girls. 

If it was a boy, he wouldn’t have left me like that. I know this for sure. Being all wet, I have no other option but to go to room and get changed. Everyone in the campus was watching me with wonder. Since it was so sunny, and didn’t rain at all they might be surprised how I was wet. I felt embarrassed and felt still angrier on that girl. If I see her again, I don’t know what I could do. But, How? I didn’t see her face properly. There were hundreds of girls in the campus. I hope I won’t see her again. But, part of me wanted to see her again. 

After few weeks, one afternoon, I didn’t go for lunch. I was solving some maths questions in the class alone where all the class went for lunch. It was pin drop silence when I heard sound of small bells jingling. It was coming from the windows beside. I saw a yellow dupatta. Suddenly I felt my heart beat growing fast. It was the same dupatta and same bells swinging at the edge of it. She was the girl. I am sure. She entered in to my class. It was the same white dress with yellow combination. I was shocked to see her face. She was . . .

After few weeks, one afternoon, I didn’t go for lunch. I was solving some maths questions in the class alone where all the class went for lunch. It was pin drop silence when I heard sound of small bells jingling. It was coming from the windows beside. I saw a yellow dupatta. Suddenly I felt my heart beat growing fast. It was the same dupatta and same bells swinging at the edge of it. She was the girl. I am sure. 

She entered in to my class. It was the same white dress with yellow combination. I was shocked to see her face. She was beautiful. She was wearing matching bangles. She left her hair free wearing a small clip. She saw me staring at her. She bent her head down as soon as she saw me. ‘I think sheremembers me’. I don’t know what to say. 

She silently went to a seat there and sat. She started solving some problems. “What was she doing here? Is she from the same class of mine? Oh My God. I didn’t see her before.” It took me few more seconds for me to look back into my books. 

“What did I do till now? How can I stare like that? Shouldn’t I be angry? I was angry all these days whenever I see a girl in the campus. But what happened to me now? It was her face, which I can’t help it but to stare. But, till now I was angry on that unseen face. Why didn’t I see her before? Why did I see her now?” 

I don’t know which question popped in to my mind, but all the questions seemed to popping at the same time instead of the formulas or ideas to solve the maths problem before me. I couldn’t see the problem anymore other than her face. I closed my eyes, and opened them again. But, it was her face again. I saw her face clearly but still I felt that I didn’t see her properly. I wanted to see her again. I slowly lifted my head. There was no one around. I saw her again. She was deeply looking into her books as if she is going to hypnotize the words in the book. She can do it easily I guess, as she did already something to me. 

I thought even she might be thinking something but acting like she was reading something. I wondered what she was thinking. “Is it about me? She still remembers me?” I wanted to starta conversation to confirm. “But, how can I talk?” I thought at least somehow I should talk. “I won’t get chance like this. In few minutes, everyone will come for afternoon classes. Later I won’t get time to talk to her alone. If somehow my attempt fails, then that is also good to me at this moment as there are no witnesses to make fun of me.” Thinking like this, I gathered all my courage to talk to her.”

“Hi.” I said politely. But, this is not how I wanted to treat that unseen face that left me there that day. I don’t know where all my anger went and how I turned like this. 

She turned to me wondering whom I was speaking to. 

“Hi” I said again smiling at her reassuring her it was her I am referring to. 

“Hi” She replied in low voice hesitatingly. 

“I was just wondering whether you might have seen me before anywhere.” I don’t know how words came out without making any sense. Generally people ask in the opposite way – I was wondering whether I had seen you somewhere as your face seems familiar to me. 

I waited for her to say something. I know it was the same girl. If she doesn’t remember me, her answer will be a NO. I can’t say even if she remembers me she can lie easily to me for her safe side. Girls avoid these types of conversations easily.

“Yeah. I remember seeing you one day when I came to get water. That was you right?” She said. 

Wow. What did I hear? She told the truth. I know she is the same girl. 

“Yes yes. You are right. So It was you who broke the tap and ran away right?” I said laughing out remembering that scene. I don’t know why I was laughing; I thought to be serious and angry if I see that unseen girl who did that to me on that day. 

“What? I didn’t. I mean, I didn’t mean to leave you like that. I know you were trying to close it back. But, I know it was broken and can’t be fixed. If I too were joined with you, it would be of no use. We will end up wasting all the water making that place messy and also we will get wet. So, I thought to get someone to do something right. I went and informed about that to a person in mess. He said he will look into that. Then, I realized I was late for the class. I directly went to class. I am sorry if something went wrong on that day.” She almost said in a worrying tone. 

I sat there looking at her with an open mouth. I am really a fool to misunderstand her like that. Her explanation is absolutely correct. She was right and spontaneous at that situation and I was thinking why I didn’t think like that. Instead of that, I was blaming her all the time till now. I don’t know what to say. She was looking at me to say something. I felt guilty to look at her.

“I am so sorry. I thought you were afraid and left from there. I didn’t think in this way. Nothing went wrong on that day. When I turned to see you, you were not there. I felt something odd and alone, feeling that I am responsible for this to happen which was not true. So, I got angry. I am sorry, I shouldn’t have thought like that.” I said scolding myself inside.

“Oh. It’s ok. If I were you, even I might have thought the same.” She said and looked at me for a few seconds to say something. I didn’t know what to say more. I turned my head towards my books still thinking the same thing how wrong I was. She too didn’t say anything for the day.

“That night, I was rewinding whole conversation again and again in my mind. I didn’t think about any other girl like this before. I used to tease girls from my earlier classes a lot. I never thought about or regret that later. But, this was really different to me. I wanted to talk to her again. Firstly, I met her accidentally on one day but I didn’t see her face. I searched for her thinking every girl might be her. Then, strangely she was in my class itself all those days and I didn’t happen to notice her till today. My heart skipped a bit as soon as I saw her that afternoon and I was sure that was her, whom I was searching for. I behaved totally opposite what I planned I should be. After listening to her, I got attracted more to her. I couldn’t sleep that night.

The next day I purposely didn’t go to lunch. I remained there in the class. I was hoping her to come soon as she did yesterday. Exactly at same time as yesterday or I can say even few minutes early, she was there approaching our class. I saw her through corner of my eyes. I was waiting for her. I smiled without looking to her directly. I saw that she too was smiling seeing me smiling. I felt funny. I wanted to talk to her. My heart was urging to start the conversation. I didn’t plan that. But, somehow I should talk. I cleared my throat and started.”

“Hi. Had lunch?” I asked her keeping my voice steady.

“Hi. Yeah I had. What about you?” She said. I felt she too was maintaining a serious tone.

“No. I didn’t go. I was not feeling to have lunch.” I said smiling myself as I couldn’t control my heart. It was jumping.

“Why? What happened?” She was still serious.

“Nothing. I got bored of food here. That’s it.” I said making my answer logical as every hosteller feel the same after few days in hostel.

“Oh. Yeah. Even I feel the same. I was counting the days for the exam. So that I can go home soon after finishing the exam.” She said partly low and partly in exciting voice.

“Suddenly I felt my heart giving a jerk. I forgot that there were only 10 more days to finish our term there. Till the before day even I was feeling the same to get out of that campus. But, then I was not ready for that. I was feeling something new feeling whenever I thought about that girl. This has started only after 24hrs I saw her. 

But, I felt I was feeling that from a long time and I want it to feel like that forever. Again I didn’t know what to say to her. I think she was puzzled by my silence. Every time I start a conversation and I end up being silent.

Again that night I was thinking. I can’t stop the time. So, I needed to think other ways which will help me not to end this here. I made up my mind. I know I was crazy. I wanted to know something more about her. I was going to use those final days to know her better. I didn’t think why I thought like that as that was not important to me right at that time. 

I was happy as the fate also my side helping me. Every day I started skipping my lunch and she too started coming early from her lunch. She would go with her friends and come. I felt easier to talk to her day by day. We got to know about each other. Not completely but good enough to talk about. The days were passing more quick than we thought. 

I can say that she too enjoyed our talks as much as I enjoyed. I thought I would definitely miss her after our couching term. The thought itself startled me daily. No matter what happens, I wanted to say how I felt about her. The day before exam, when we were talking I wanted to express my feelings towards her. 

I just said it. . . 

The day before exam, when we were talking I wanted to express my feelings towards her. I just said it.”

“I like you. I think I am in love.”

First she was shocked to hear me like that. Then, she took it easily. 

“Sorry? You don’t know me much. We started talking just like that. Not even more than 10days. You are thinking in wrong way. Once after the exam we don’t even be in contact and you eventually forget all these talks.” She said smiling and nodding her head in disagreement to my words.

“I listened to her. I sighed when she is done from her side. She didn’t tell me that she doesn’t like me and she didn’t sound angry also. That was enough for then. I stood up closing my books forthe day.”

“Ok. I am sure about my feelings and my thoughts. I won’t change my decision. If you want to speak to me at anytime, you can call me to this number.” I wrote down my number in a paper and placed it on her desk. She was staring at me in shock.

“Good Luck” I said without meeting her eyes and left the class.

I didn’t go to class again. I didn’t see her then again. We finished our exam and every one left to our homes. I was thinking all the time why I said like that. Part of me was expecting a call from her and part of me was saying that she would have thrown the paper I gave in to a dustbin and forgot about my episode.”

He finished.

“That’s it?” I wanted to ask him. I feel there is something more. It didn’t end like this I guess. But everyone was remained frozen in their seats as I am. Some of them are expecting him to continue. Some of them are wishing it should not end like this. But he didn’t start again.
“Hey. What happened again? Is this is the end?” Supriya broke the silence and asked with curiosity. 

“I wish this was the end” He said in a low voice looking down. 

No one said anything. So, there is something more. But, if doesn’t want to go further, we don’t want to force him. But he didn’t move from there. We remained silent for few seconds. 

He started again. “I got a message one day. I was lying on bed and thinking about her. By the time, I had told everything to my mom and sister. They didn’t react much. They just listened to me which I wanted only that from them.”

“Hi. I am sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I just said what every boy feels. I told you my opinion. You don’t take it seriously and spoil your future. Have a bright life. Take Care.”

“I don’t remember how many times I read that. I showed it to my sister. Even she thought it must be from that girl. I asked my sister to call and talk to her. She didn’t think it was a good idea. But, I have nothing but to call her to confirm. I called her after so much of thought in the same evening.”

“Hello?” I said hesitatingly.

“Hello. Hi. I didn’t expect your call. How are you?” She told in a very casual tone.

“It was you right? I doubted a bit. So, is this your number?” I said happily.

“Yeah. This is mine. So, what’s up? Are you angry still?” She asked me.

“I wasn’t angry at all. Why do you think so?” I was surprised.

“Is it? The way you acted that day, I was so shocked and afraid. You didn’t even turn or say anything later. I didn’t see you again in the next class or next day also. So, I thought you were mad at me. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I felt guilty.” She said in her own overflowing words. I just kept listening. Her voice in my phone is same a jingle bells. I didn’t want to stop her.

“Hello? You there?” she asked me.

“Oh. Yeah. I am still here.” Where else can I go? “You need not to worry much. I didn’t know what to say after that minute. So, I left like that. Later I thought that I should have told something more which makes some sense. But, I didn’t know what to say. Finally, it happened like that.” I said my version.

“Oh. See. I told you na. You let it go. You realized right. This is what I told.” She said as if she was great.

“Hello? I still mean what I said. I believe it.” I said strongly.

“Oh is it? You didn’t even have my contact. How did you think to find me again?” She said in a playful voice.

“I know you would call me. That’s why I gave you my number instead of giving my number. I was just waiting for your call. That’s it.” I said in a winning voice. Yes. I am the winner now.

“Oh. I didn’t call you. I just send you a message because I felt guilty. I shouldn’t have done that right?” She asked as if she became a fool.

“Whatever, I got your number. I am happy. I am not a bad guy. You know that. You can talk to my parents also.” I was about to give my phone to my sister.

“Hey. No. Wait. What do you want me to talk to your parents? I didn’t say anything to you. We just talked for a few days at lunch breaks. That’s it. I didn’t know anything more than that? How does that make sense if you say you love me on the 11th day after you saw me? How can I trust a guy whom I know only for 10 days?” She has a point. Even my sister said that. ‘How do you expect something different other than that when she knows you only since 10 days?’ “Well, yes. You too have a point. How about this? Let us be friends. Take your own time. When you feel the right time to answer, reply me. What do you say?” I asked her. I felt this is something weird to do ask her like this. But, I didn’t have other option. I thought it is best for now instead of losing her completely. 

“This is better I guess. Meanwhile you can also get to know about me and may change your decisions. We may remain as good friends. No issues.” She said approving to my idea. I hated her thoughts. But, I was happy that this went well. 

“Okay. Good.” I said.

“You were good to me those days. That’s why I wish to be a friend to you. Otherwise I won’t do this. I just want you to know this. I will catch you later. Bye.” She kept the phone.

I felt a kind of relief. I smiled at my sister. I explained everything to her. She started making fun of me regarding this never heard agreement. Even I felt funny. But, I am glad that we can talk more. 

Since then, my life has become so busy. I was so happy each and every day. I loved this feeling. We talk, we fight and we apologize. Each day was different. My mom and my sister thought I would go crazy. They left me as if I wasn’t at home like an absent person. I don’t know how the three months has passed. 

I joined in an engineering college. She opted for B.Sc. Days were going on. We both were in different places but it was just an hour journey far. Once in two weeks I would go and meet her. She almost took two years to reply me. I know she would definitely understand me. Later after twoyears she too started visiting me. In alternate weekends we go to each other’s place. Sometimes, I take her to my house also. My dad didn’t pay much attention as usual. But, my mom and sister liked her very much. Both our parents got to know about us. Even her parents are not happy about this they didn’t say anything with her. So, we thought to give them some time meanwhile we can also settle in our lives and give them a little confidence what they were concerned about.
She always asked me to go for civil service. So, I thought of writing groups after my B.Tech. 

She finished her B.Sc. when I was in final year and she continued for M.Sc. in the same college. Then, it all started from her parents. They slowly started asking her to change her mind. They started showing her some proposals. I thought it’s the time to meet them officially. I don’t want to marry her immediately as that would be a wrong time for that. But, I wanted to assure them I would keep her happy to my best. I told this to my parents. They didn’t oppose me. They only said, they can just go and talk to them. But, whatever decision it is, they will leave it to her parents. I approved to it. 

I know my parents give us all the right to choose whatever we like till that won’t turn out to be painful to others. They respected our decisions when we respected theirs. Even my sister’s marriage is love marriage. When we heard about their love both parents wanted to meet once. Both the families liked their love and respect towards each other. That’s it. They were happily married. So, I was confident upon myself. My parents went and talked to them. They seemed to be pleased. I felt a sigh of relief. Later few months passed as usual. 

One day my phone buzzed at a different time. I saw an unknown number. . . 

One day my phone buzzed at a different time. I saw an unknown number. I felt uneasy to hear her upset voice. She tried to talk in her usual manner. She only asked me to be happy, try hard to read my goal, and final before saying bye, she said “I love you so much” which is not her usual manner.\

I asked her what’s wrong, but she didn’t tell me all. She told me she was just worried. I know sometimes she behave like this. I thought this is also same. As I was also still upset about her behaviour, I didn’t want to upset her more. So, I just said everything will be fine. She agreed and kept the phone back.

I had wondered why she was calling from another number. But, I didn’t ask her thinking there might be some problem with her phone. She does this usually. But, Later I didn’t get call from her again. Whatever number I had, I tried to call everyone. Then I came to know that her marriage got fixed. I don’t know how I lost her. I felt so alone in the whole world. This all happened suddenly in 10 days.

I was worried that something is going on. But, I didn’t expect that I was going to lose her. I couldn’t get a chance to talk to her where all the mobiles at home where switched off. I heard from her friends that suddenly one day her dad became so serious and finalized a proposal that was waiting for their reply. I don’t know what has happened to turn out like this. But, I realized it was too late to do anything. I didn’t listen to any news after that. Even my parents were shocked to hear it.

They even thought of talking to them again. But, I didn’t want to hurt their pride. I know they can do whatever that keeps me happy finally, but I don’t know why I didn’t want to. May be I didn’t want them to do anything more beyond their limits as already they did a lot to me. Then, they only asked me to be positive and not to be upset. They didn’t let me go anywhere alone. I know they were worried. I only thought about them. I assured them that I will be fine.

As her only wish for me and my ambition was, me taking the path and being part of civil services, I wanted to continue it. I told the same to my parents. Now I am preparing for those exams staying with my sister and brother-in-law. This is it.” He concluded.

Everyone fell into silence as silent as there was no one in the hall. Even Raghu stood still not knowing how to move. No one knows what to talk even though everyone has different thoughts and questions in their minds. It is just they were afraid to break the silence.

When tears filled in my eyes, it was then, I heard someone’s mobile rang a loud breaking the silence. It was Rohit’s. He didn’t answer but rejected his call. He went and said something to Raghu. Raghu went back to his seat. He signalled some of other friends to take care of him. And then Rohit went out.

When I was lost in my thoughts, “Aarti? Can you come help me for some arrangements here?” Rohit returned again and called out for me.

“Huh? Okay” I said and went.

He gestured to Harsha to continue and he left. When I went out Rohit was talking in phone and walking. I waited for him to finish and followed him absently.

“You okay?” He asked me interrupting my thoughts. I don’t know when he finished his talk.

“Huh? Yeah. Why?” I said.

“Nothing. You seemed lost. Well, that was a call from caterers. It is good that you came up with this idea of get-together. Everyone was so happy and thankful for idea.” He said gratefully.

“I just told you my idea. It’s all you who arranged everything. Thanks to you actually.” I said smiling.

“Good. You are out of that mood. What was it bothering you?” He asked in concern.

“Oh. That was about Raghu. What he has said was exactly the one which I heard from a girl last month.” I said.

“What? What are you talking? Who was that girl? Is it ……. hmm, what is her name did Raghu say? Oh, No. Raghu didn’t tell her name right?” Rohit was shocked and also eagerly waiting for me to answer all of his confusions. He stopped suddenly. I stopped two feet ahead feeling his stillness at my back.

I turned to him.

“Would you please tell me what’s going on?” He asked me.

“I don’t know. I went to this marriage one day when my dad asked me to attend, where my dad couldn’t attend. It was his friend’s daughter marriage. I was there for two days. As I don’t know anyone there, I had to stay in their home. The day before her marriage, we two were in her room. I felt something wrong with her. She was not happy. I thought she was just worriedto leave her parents as every other girl. I said everything will be fine. It was then, she started telling me everything. I felt why she was telling me all this when I just showed up in their home that evening for the first time and that she doesn’t even know me. Then, I realized she was just sharing as she hasn’t had a chance to open up her heart to anyone at home. She said she also attempted for suicide. But, she couldn’t make it. She just cried and let it go everything she was holding till then. She didn’t expect anything for me to say. She just thanked me for listening to her. I only told her that everything will go fine and not to worry and ruin life.” I said everything what I can say.

Rohit was as shocked as I was at that time. He was staring with his shocking expression. “Come on. We are running late.” I said and moved on making him to come out.

“What? did u just say, She got married?” He asked still in surprised.

 

“Yeah. I guess, Raghu don’t know that. And even I didn’t have any that it was our Raghu. She just said his name as “Raghavendra”. I didn’t even think of that. I don’t know what I would have done if I had known this before but I am just feeling a kind of guilt now. I don’t know why.” I looked at him anxiously.

Suddenly his expression has changed now. “See Aarti, there is nothing you can do now and besides you didn’t do anything to happen like this. You don’t have to feel guilty. Everything will be fine as you said earlier. Okay?” He patted my shoulder reassuringl

“Okay.” I said believing him. “But, she was very good Rohit. She told me everything how the days were for her at home. Her parents didn’t give her any mobiles or they didn’t let her to talk or go to her friends also. Only the time she went out is to collect her certificates from her college with her brother. No one at home behaved normally with her. It was then she tried to take poison. But, she ended up having vomiting all the day and falling sick for three days after the doctor’s visit at right time. I felt so bad for her. I think after Raghu’s parents visited them, this all turned into serious I guess.” I was still frowning.

Rohit was watching me as he doesn’t know what to say. Again he got a call.

“Hello? Yeah. Coming. I will be there in two minutes. Okay.” He said and cut it off.

“Hey. Come on. Now leave it here. Let’s talk about this later. We need to go soon.” He said and we started our way to hostel mess.

As it was holidays for school, we asked permission from our principal to arrange our get-together here. I thought this would be a good idea and we also asked caterers to arrange the food in hostel mess. When we went there all the items are kept aside and everything was ready to serve.

We went and talked to few people there and checked if everything was alright. When we are finished, we said that we will be back in few minutes with others for lunch. They said they can be here for two hours. Then, we headed back to our class.

“hmm.” Rohit sighed. I looked at him expecting some question from him.

“By the way, I still didn’t get to know her name.” He said. 
“Why should you? What will you do with that?” I asked him.
“Nothing. Just curious. I can’t ask Raghu about this.” He said laughing.

“Hey. I will kill you if you say all this to Raghu. Don’t even tell him that she got married. He will feel bad. He is somehow getting over with it. Don’t ruin his mood now and his career too.” I said almost snapping at him.

“Hey. No. How do you think that I can say all this to Raghu? For the God sake, He is my friend. How can I hurt him? You are insulting me. Don’t you know about me?” He said in worrying tone.

I smiled and said. “Alright. I know. I was just making sure not to drop the news anywhere. Not even with any of your friends. Just forget it.” I said.

We are almost reaching the class and I know I didn’t tell him the name yet. I was walking two few steps ahead purposely fast.

“Hey. Aarti. Slow down a bit yaar. Why are you in such a hurry? Tell me her name.” He was shouting in a low voice, making sure no one should hear his words.

I still don’t understand why he needs the name. What is in it? What can he do after knowing the name? May be its boy’s mentality. I know he will drive me crazy all the day asking her name. I don’t want him nagging behind me for this. It would be good if I tell him the name otherwise he may even go straight to Raghu and ask him.

We were three steps far to class room door. I gave him a sharp look and said. . .

We are three steps far to class room door. I gave him a sharp look and said. “MANASA”. 

When I was entering into class. “Nice name” I heard him whispering at my back. I don’t know why I felt angry. I just went and sat with my friends. The whole class seemed normal now not like when we left.

“Hi all. We are back. What did we miss till now?” He asked Harsha, trying to catch up the things. 

“We had nice time. Aparna had come here to sing few songs.” Harsha said smiling brightly. Aparna was a singer who learnt classical music and fond of music and songs. We always asked her to sing in leisure times in school.
“Wow. That sounds so good. We missed it. That’s okay. We all can hear it again after the lunch. Aren’t you guys’ hungry?” Rohit asked in his usual tone now.
“Yesssss!!!” everyone in the class sang in chorus. I guess they were still in singing mood. I peeked at Raghu once. He seems to be fine now. I felt a kind of happy for now.
In an hour we all finished our lunch. Later everyone formed into different groups and started chatting with each other. Some were making fun of others, few were talking about teachers. Few were discussing about future and career.
I saw Rohit, Abhinav, Tanmayi, Harsha, Raghu and Kala chatting together at a corner. They all were having ice creams in their hands. I was talking to Supriya. She was telling me about her college. She got into an MBA college. I got a call when she asked me something. The call was from my dad. I couldn’t hear him properly, so I have to get up and go out.

“Hello Daddy. Can you hear me now?” I asked.

“Yeah. I can hear you now. How is everything going on there?” He asked me.

“Great Dad. It was more fun than I expected. Everyone is enjoying here.” I said.

“That’s really great. I told you na. Remember what did I tell you when you said about this?” He said in happy voice.

“Yeah Dad. ‘You will have great fun’- this is what you exactly said. I remember” I replied him and asked “Okay, did you have lunch?”

“Yeah. What about you?” He asked me.

“I too had nice lunch dad. See you in couple of hours.” I said.

“Okay. Take care” He said and cut the call.

As my mom and my sister were out of town, it is only me and my dad at home now. I still remember the day when I got a dream. 

My dad was reading newspaper when I woke up late that morning. I went and sat beside him and took one of the other papers. 

“Good Morning dad” I said sleepily.

“Good Morning dear. Did you have any good dream?” He asked me.

“Wow. How do you know dad?” I asked in wonder.

He smiled at me and looked back into paper again. I was still looking at him waiting for his reply.

“Well, I came to your room to wake you up. You seem so happy dreaming something. So, I left you like that.” He said still looking into newspaper.

“Haha. That’s so funny dad. How can you say that?” I said.

“No. I really felt like that. Tell me honestly, was it a good dream or not? You liked it na?” He asked in nearly debating with me.

“Ya. I had a good dream and I liked it also. I met all my school friends in my dream. It was fun. I felt as if I was still in school. I didn’t want to end that dream.” I said sadly.

“Hmm. That’s really a good dream then. Plan it then. Make it true and have real fun.” He said encouragingly. “This is the time to make your dreams come true” He said in loud voice and left me alone there. 

I remained there thinking what dad had said. Indirectly he suggested me to plan for a get-together. ‘Meeting my school friends’. The thought itself made my heart feel so happy.

Very soon I remembered Rohit. We both are classmates since kindergarten. I can’t say we are friends, because we were more like enemies all the time, through all the years. We always used to compete in everything. Studies, organizing events, games, etc., we both were our class representatives. We always have a fight in class if there was any competition between girls and boys. There was no day without an argument between us. We both were best students forteachers, but they always got tired about our fights when we were supposed to coordinate each other in organizing some events. I was so happy when I finished my schooling, thinking I won’t see him again. Later we had few calls but we never got much close. 

Eventually I forgot about him. But then, I don’t know why I remembered him suddenly. I dialed to him feeling that he shouldn’t have changed his phone number. His mom picked the phone; I introduced myself to her and asked about Rohit’s whereabouts. She recognized me and gave hismobile number. I called him.

“Hi Rohit. This is Aarti. You remember me?” I said.

“Aarti? Is that you Aarti? What a surprise?” He said in surprise voice.

“Yeah. I feel the same. How are you?” I asked.

“I am fine. How are you?” He asked me still in shock.

“I am fine too.” I said and I was still thinking why I remembered him suddenly.

“Great. So, what’s the news? A call from you isn’t a usual thing.” He said guessing there is something I need to say.

“Well. I was thinking this since yesterday. Shall we have a get-together, meeting up everyone in our class?” I asked in low voice.

After few seconds of silence, he said. “That’s good thought. We can meet. Where do you want to meet everyone?” He asked.

“Anywhere. Where everyone were comfortable to come. Depending upon each and everyone’s opinion we can decide upon venue. What do you say?” I said.

“Well, give me two days. I will let you know.” He said.

“Okay. Bye.” I replied.

“Bye.” He said and hung up.

I think that was the first time we spoke in very casual manner. I felt strange. May be I was still thinking that we are class representatives. We used to share any news regarding our class like that as if we were going to sign some agreement. I felt silly thinking like this. I was not sure about him, whether he will remember about my idea or not. So, for time being I didn’t expect call from him. I thought to call my other friends if I won’t get call from him.

It was exactly after two days, I got call from him. I was surprised and also felt happy that he remembered. 

“Hello Rohit” I said.

“Hi Aarti, How are you?” He said.

“I am fine. What about you?” I asked.

“I am good. So, what’s up?” He asked casually.

“Nothing much. What about our plan?” the word ‘our’ felt strange to me. It reminds me that we were working together which is a little unusual. I am sure he too felt the same and I heard him laughing under his voice.

“Well, I called some of our friends, and got some information. Everyone was suggesting differentdates and places. We still need to get other’s contacts. I will send you a list and some details, look into that and see if you can contact them. We will plan according to that then.” He explained well.

“Okay. Is there anything else?” I asked.

“Nothing for now. Will call you if something gets into my mind. I think this may take couple of months to figure out everything.” He said.

“Oh. That’s not so long at least.” I said looking forward to it.

“Okay. Got to go. Catch you later, bye.” He said.

“Bye” I replied.

Later for two months, we often talked. It was mostly about our plan. Sometimes, we continued our fights also when we talked about our school. Exactly after two months everyone was gathered here. Rohit didn’t want anyone to miss this. So, he made sure that everyone should come and enjoy.
When I was lost in my thoughts, I saw Abhinav coming in my direction. He was seeing me and smiling. I smiled and said.

“Hey. What’s up? How was the day?” I asked him.

“It was great Aarti. I am very happy that you made it.” He said.

“Oh. C’mon. I did nothing. It was your friend, who helped me in this and took care of everything.” I said and thanked Rohit in my heart.

“Ok. You two were great then.” Saying that he laughed. I too joined with him.

“Well. As soon as you told your plan to him, he first called me. First of all we both were surprised that you called him and secondly I was surprised to hear him that he was going to help you. I wondered what had happened to you both. I don’t know why you both used to argue a lot when we were kids. But, now I am happy to see you like this.” He said. I felt honest in all his words. 
I didn’t say anything but smiled not knowing what to answer. 

“Hey, did you hear this? Harsha is going to help Tanmayi from now onwards.
That’s what we were discussing till now.” He said in exciting tone.

“Is it? How?” I asked in same voice.

“Harsha is an artist right. He is working as an art designer in a private company. Besides, he also keeps some of his paintings in art exhibitions sometimes. The money he earns like that he is going to give it to charities which Tanmayi knew. They both are going to work on it together in achieving her goal.” Abhinav ended.

“Wow. That was great idea. I am happy to hear it.” I said happily. 

“Yeah. We are also so happy.” Saying that he looked at his watch.
“Oh my god. I’m getting late.” He said. 

“Why? It is just 4pm. You have any important work? Is it about your Shalini?” I said thinking to play with him for some time.

“Arey. No. Not about her. I need to drop my dad to station. I have to go now.” He said hurrily.

“Ok. I will leave you this time as you were in hurry. You have to get Shalini this time without fail.” I warned him.

“Oh. Sure. I will. By the way, can you please inform Rohit, that I am going to drop my dad? I am sure Rohit wants to stay here for some more time. I will call him when I come back home.” He said.

“Okay. What about others? Don’t want to say Bye to everyone?” I asked.

“Ya. I told them. I talked to everyone. Then only I came to you. See you soon. Bye.” He said and disappeared.

“Bye” I said looking at him. And turned to find Rohit to tell about Abhinav.
I didn’t find him immediately. Later I saw him at the other door leaning to the wall beside and facing the opposite person. I wondered who he was talking with.

When I was walking towards him, I heard someone calling me.

“Hey, Aarti! How many times I need to call you?” . . .

When I was walking towards him, I heard someone calling me.

“Hey, Aarti! How many times I need to call you?” Supriya was shouting and everyone was seeing me.

“Ya. Coming.” I said to them and turned to them still thinking with whom Rohit talking to.

“What is it?” I asked them. Supriya, Tanmayi, and Kala were standing together.

“We were searching for you. Where did you go suddenly?” Tanmayi asked.

“Hey. I got a call from my dad and when I was coming to you, Abhinav came to talk to me.” I said.

“Oh. Is it? Yeah, Abhinav also asked about you. He said he has some work. Did he go?” she asked.

“Yeah. He left. Why were you searching for me?” I asked when they still didn’t tell me anything.

“Hey, Kala has invited us to her home to meet her husband and family members. Shall we go, before it too late?” Supriya told about the plan they were discussed till now.

“Oh is it? Hmm – Ya, we can go. But …” I hesitated for a moment. 

“What? You have any work?” Kala asked.

“I am sorry Kala, I can’t come today. But, I will definitely come on other day. Please don’t mind.” I said. 

“Why? What happened suddenly?” She asked.

“Mom and sister are out of station. My dad is alone. I need to go home early. If I come with you, I will stay for only sometime. It won’t be good to leave soon while talking to your family members.” I said clearly what I meant.

“Hmm. Wouldn’t it be nice if you come now?” She was feeling bad as I couldn’t come.

“Hey, sorry yaar. I told you na why I couldn’t come. Did I do like this before? Please understand me this time. I will come to your home during my next visit to home. I will call you myself. Trust me.” I said in a confident tone.

“Okay. Fine. I will wait for your call then. Take care. We will start then. Bye.” She said.

I went with them till outside and they left.

When I was back, I saw only few members in the hall. More than half had left. I looked at my watch, it showed 5pm. I thought to leave then. I wanted to say bye to everyone there. Even, they were ready to leave. I spoke to them and wished them good luck for bright future. Everyone asked me to be in contact and all are ready to meet at any time like this. The whole scene reminded me of our farewell day, our last day at school few years back. Only our teachers were missing and whole school will be empty again in few minutes. 

When I came out, I saw Raghu. He saw me and stopped. I smiled at him and started walking to him. He just gave a short smile and looked down waiting for me. It reminded me about Manasa. I felt guilty again. I was thinking whether I should tell him about Manasa or not. I reached him.

“Hey, are you leaving?” I asked.

“Ya. What about you?” He asked me.

“I am also leaving. Thanks for coming.” I said not knowing what else to say.

“Hey, don’t be so formal. I wanted to come. Comparing to all the schools I studied, here I have good and close friends. When I heard about get-together, I didn’t have any second thoughts but to come here.” He told honestly.

“That’s really nice. So, did you have good time then?” I asked.

“I had a great time. It’s really a good change for me. I felt so happy and I am feeling much better now. We all had good time. Listening to other’s past lives, future plans, sharing joy and sorrow, expressing ideas and everything. It was really nice to hear from everyone. I can say each and every word inspired me.” He said happily.

I felt so happy listening this from him. I smiled and said, “Wow. Now I can say proudly that this get-together is a grand success.” I felt happier now. There is no guilty in me then.

“Yes madam. It was a grand success.” He too said in proud. 

We laughed at each other. And I asked, “So, How are you going now? Where do you stay?”

“Actually, I came this morning from my home-town. I came home two days back for festival along with my sister and brother-in-law. There is a bus at 6pm. I can reach home at 9pm.” He said.

“Okay. How are you going to bus stop? Is there anyone to drop you?” I asked.

“No. Morning Rohit had picked me up from bus stand and now he is in some other work it seems. Otherwise he would have definitely come. Anyways, I can take an auto from here. Not a problem.” He said.

“Oh. Where is Rohit? What work does he have now? It might be something important if he really said that.” I said wondering what he will do after having a busy day like this. 

Meanwhile I saw Santhosh coming towards us. “Hey Raghu. You didn’t leave yet?” Santhosh asked.

“No. I should leave now. Just talking to Aarti. What about you?” Raghu replied.

“I was helping Rohit, but he asked me to see if you had left or not. If you haven’t yet, I came to drop you to station. So, Shall we go?” Santhosh said.

“Oh. Rohit asked you to drop Raghu? Good then, start soon. Otherwise you will miss your bus.” I said.

“Ok Aarti. Will see you soon. Take care.” Raghu said started. Santhosh joined him.

“Both of you take care and Bye.” I said and turned to meet Rohit inside thinking what he might be doing? . . .

“Both of you take care and Bye.” I said and turned to meet Rohit inside thinking what he might be doing?

I saw Rohit sitting in a chair alone. No one was around. I went near to him and asked, ‘Don’t you want to leave?’

He was thinking something seriously bending his head watching the floor. He didn’t even hear me it seems. 

“Hey Rohit… Are you okay?” I asked with a louder voice this time.

“Oh. Hey. Yeah, I am fine. Why?” he suddenly answered me still in puzzled voice.

“You look like you have lost in some thoughts. What’s wrong?” I asked him sitting in a chair beside.

“It’s nothing. What are you doing here still? Didn’t you leave yet?” He asked me.

“No. I was talking to Raghu. I was about to leave then, Santhosh said you were still here because of some work. I just came to see what work you are doing here.” I said and observed him that he was not listening to me completely. He was still thinking something.

After few seconds he realized that I was waiting for him to answer.

“Oh. Yes. I asked our Ranga to clean up our class and the mess here. It won’t look good by the time school re-opens.” He said smiling.

“Oh. I forgot that completely. Good that you thought about that. Is Ranga and his wife are still working here?” I asked him in wonder.

“Yeah. When I was thinking to find a place to meet us all, I came to school to get some certificate. I thought no other place will be better than our school to meet up. I spoke to our coordinator. Then, I met our Ranga here. He said he will have the all the keys during holidays also. They still live in that house beside our school compound.” He explained me how he planned it.

I was appreciating him in my heart. I don’t know why I couldn’t say that directly to him. May be I am afraid that he might tease me again.

“Hmm. That’s not bad.” I said, nothing more than that. 
We saw some photos that were taken today in his camera. We laughed at some pictures. I asked him to get all the other photos from everyone and mail to me. 

After some time, Ranga came and told us that everything is cleaned and locked. Rohit gave him some money and he left. We too started.

“How are you going?” I asked.

“Hmm. By walk or I can call Santhosh to pick me up. He took my bike. But, I can’t wait here till then.” He said.

“If you want I can give you company for some time till Santhosh comes.” I said.

“No need that. You will be late to home. By the way, how are you going?” He asked me.

“As usual by walk. My home is not so far na.” I said and laughed. He knew my house. He never used to come to my house even if he has any work with me. He used to send any other person or he will ask me at school. Due to our rivalry at school, he had that ego to come to my home.

We both laughed again. And he said first, “Can I walk you to your home?”
I was shocked to hear that. ‘Is this Rohit, talking to me today?’- I thought.
“Don’t be so shocked. I just asked simply. If you don’t want, I can take my way to home.” He said lifting his hands gesturing he has no issues.

“No. That’s fine. Come, let’s go.” I said.

We walked till our school gate talking nothing. We were walking slowly wondering what we were thinking right now. 

The whole day was a surprise to me. I wish there are no more surprises and shocks. I am tired. 

“What are you thinking?” He asked.

“Nothing.” I laughed at my thoughts and said, “Today I feel I am so tired. My mind was still roaming at school only. I think I can’t get good sleep today.” I said and laughed.

“Me too. I had a good time. In fact, I had a busy day. Everyone is awesome. I wonder how all of us had grown up like this. Each and everyone’s thoughts about their future were amazing.” He said.

“Yeah. Even I felt bad about Raghu, I felt little happy that he was moving on and concentrating on his aim. And, Tanmayi – I was happy that Harsha is going to help her. Did you hear that?” I asked and saw he was not looking happy.

He nodded still bending his head and walking slowly. “Yeah. I was there when he said that. Besides, he exhibits his arts and photographs a lot. I heard that. That may even help him to become famous and settle in his career.” He said.

“Hmm. Yeah. Can I ask you something?” I said.

“Ya. Sure. What is it?” He asked me.

“I was just thinking why you are not much happy today. Morning you looked fine. When everyone left, since then you look unhappy. You are thinking much. Is it about missing everyone? Or is there anything else?” I asked.
He was silent for some time. “If you don’t want to tell me, it’s fine. It won’t bother me. I just asked.” I said thinking how should I change the topic.

“It’s nothing. When Raghu came to me to say Bye, we just talked for few minutes. I asked him about ‘Manasa’.” He said.

“What? Did you tell him about her marriage? Did you tell him that you find out that from me?” I was angry this time. I felt this might hurt Raghu much and that’s why Rohit is feeling bad.

“No. Will you please let me to finish?” He said. “Listen to me. Even though we all knew the story now, I was stupid to ask that question actually. He didn’t feel bad. He just told how he missed her. And he was so grateful that he came here. He somehow feels happy and he is feeling so better now. After listening to all other lives, he is confident now. He can make it. Don’t worry. I was just thinking how bad he might have felt few months ago.” He said.

I thought Raghu is the person he was talking to leaning across the wall when I was interrupted by Supriya while going to see Rohit. We both didn’t realize that we stopped walking. We were standing in the road and talking looking at each other. A two wheeler interrupted us, with its horn.

We moved to aside giving space to it and started walking. We still didn’t cross the whole school. Our school is so long that occupies complete street. To our left, in front of school there are few houses. After crossing two more streets like this we can enter in to main road. Opposite to that main road, crossing one more street, we can reach my home.

“Sorry. I thought you hurt Raghu again.” I said murmuring to myself.
“It’s ok. You are so good at this, coming to conclusions yourself.” He said and smiled.

“See, there you again. Don’t tease me like that.” I said.

“I am not teasing. I am saying the fact.” He laughed.

“Very funny. Let it go.” I said asking him to leave that here.

“Hmm. You tell me the special person in your life?” he asked me.

I laughed at his question. I remembered how we spent this morning only about this question. I bet no one will forget this question. I didn’t think much to answer him. “Daddy. Every day I feel that he is something special to me that god gifted to me.” I said.

He laughed aloud. I felt strange why he laughed. “What’s so funny?” I asked him in tough tone.

“Oh. Wait. Don’t take this wrong way again. I was just laughing that you said it in reverse. God didn’t give him to you. God gave you to him. Remember you are his daughter.” He said the reason why he felt funny.

I laughed at his response. “I don’t know that all. What my point is when there are many people, I was lucky to have him as my daddy. He is really special to me. Since childhood I remember only memories with him. 

I remember everything. When my mom went for training at some other place, it is only me and dad lived for two years. Mom used come once in few months. But, I don’t remember her at that age even thought my mom says she missed me a lot. I didn’t miss her because dad took a good care of me. We used to have a lot of fun together. He plays with me in the evening. I can even forget surroundings when I was with him. Even now also, I and dad will take one side when my mom and my sister take the other side while arguing on something.” I said remembering all the things I did with my dad. Given a chance I can talk about him all the day. I felt like that. 

“It sounds too nice and touching.” He said in response. I smiled.

“Ok. Enough about me then, tell me someone special in your life.” I asked. I don’t know anything about this person. I didn’t even speak to him properly at school till couple of months back. That too we just spoke about the arrangements. We didn’t speak anything about personals. Now, I want to hear him saying about his life. 

He sighed and said, “There is . . .

He sighed and said, “There is nothing special till now. Life isn’t that interesting to me after school. When I was at school, I felt each day so alive and refreshing. After school, every day is same. Parents are good to me taking good care of me and they were happy about my grades and about my good behavior. I have made friends wherever I go. Every friend is different but everyone is same to me. As I stood high at colleges also, teachers appreciated me. I was very active all the time. As every bright student, I kept my grades high and started my career in a good company. That’s it. I found nothing special in this as I didn’t find anything different. I enjoyed all the days, but it was like every day passed as planned. This doesn’t mean that I didn’t like it. I like my life. But, to say about ‘Special’, I have nothing to say.” 

“That’s it? Oh. That sounds so boring.” I said in disappointment. I thought I could hear something interesting from him like I said to him. Like everyone told their interests at school.

“Yeah. I told you na, my life is not as interesting as others.” He said.

“But, you are so good at everything. There will be something that you want to do. There will be something that you might have missed so much. Didn’t you ever felt that?” I asked him.

He fell into silence suddenly. I think he might be thinking. “Come on. Think well. You said at school each day was different. Why the days are not like that now? There will be something which makes your life interesting. You might have missed it much. May be that is ‘something special’ in your life.” I said. 

What am I talking here? Every person feels school life special. That’s what he is also feeling. That’s it. There is no point in asking him to remember. May be there is nothing special in his life then like he said. Why should I force him to think? He may tease me again if I keep on asking. Whatever, after few minutes, I won’t see him again till we meet up again for another day like this.

I saw from my corner, he is looking at me. I turned to him.

“What?” I asked.

“I think I missed you.” He said.

“What?? What did you say?” I asked him again hearing him wrong.

Coming close to me, stopping a feet away- “I THINK I MISSED YOU” he repeated. 

I stood there frozen. I didn’t hear him wrong. What is he saying? He missed me. What did he mean? “What do you mean?” I said it out which I was asking to myself for few times.

“I don’t know. I thought about you after school. You may laugh at my thought but, I really thought like this. I wished it would be better if you too could join the same college with me after school so that I may have a good time teasing each other again. You don’t believe if I say that I used to plan the next day how I could take revenge on you when you did something the before day to me. I always tried to put you in trouble even though that it may hurt you. I know you will definitely take revenge on me. I know you are not that weak hearted girl who gives up on me. You were so brave and I was surprised to see you the next day coming to me initiating one more fight. It would be a great shock to me if you let me go without getting in my way. But, like every day you kept my days different and busy. The day without your presence at school, I don’t remember it. 

But, after school in college, I felt there is no one that makes my day different. So only all my days after school were different. I thought about you. For few days I wondered whether you too had these thoughts. I made few calls to you to find out, asking you about few certificates and grades. I tried to keep contact with you. But, you were same as before. You tried to avoid me as much as possible which makes me clear that there is no way you have thought like this. Later, I forgot all about you eventually. I kept myself busy at studies. I don’t remember any day in particular later. I felt like I have been sleeping all the days and years when I woke up with your call one day. I was surprised to hear you. More than that, I was shocked that I forgot about you all these days. Later each and every talk with you made me alive again. And now at this time I learnt one thing. I can say that, “The days with your presence are someone special to me.”” He said. 

I don’t know for how long we stood there like that. I was trembling. I don’t know what I was supposed to say. I asked him to tell about his special. I asked him to think and to remember. Now I am here wordless and searching for words to say. 

Shall I say ‘Ok’? –No. That is not the right answer. Should I say ‘I don’t agree what are you saying’? –How can I say that? He didn’t ask me to agree or accept. What should I tell now? He is looking at me to say something. I wish I can go back few minutes back and go to home directly without any discussion with him. But, this is not the time to think all this. I have to say something and go to home soon. It’s getting late. All this conversation in my mind took a minute for me to answer him. I looked at him.

“I don’t know what to say.” I said honestly moving slowly. We started walking again. We entered our street. It was about to rain.

“I too don’t know what to expect you to say because I get to know this just now. But whatever I said, I felt truly all these years. I don’t know how far you understood but, this I didn’t plan to say. It just happened. No one including me knew this till now. I feel my hearted lightened now. I don’t know why. May be it’s because I was holding this truth without telling to myself. When I told you, more than that I realized how I missed you. We both got to know at same time.” He said and I didn’t see reaching myself home. My dad was sitting in chair in the corridor enjoying the climate. He stood and came near to gate seeing me coming. 

“Wow. You are back. Did you have good time baby?” He asked me. I was still looking at Rohit. Even he was hesitating to leave. 

“Who is it? Is that your friend baby?” I heard dad opening gate for me and asking me. 

“Yeah daddy. This is Rohit, I used to tell you na daddy, and Rohit this is my daddy.” I said and we all went inside. They exchanged few words. 

I made tea for all of us and sat in hall talking to each other. Dad asked him about his office and other stuff. They even talked about politics, sports etc. At home other than dad no one was interested in politics and sports. We don’t even let him to watch news or sports. Today dad got some company it seems. I was speechless between their talks because I had nothing to talk about. 

Meanwhile I got some time to get fresh up and feel relaxed after having such a day. I haven’t expected that the day would turn out like this. I can’t wait tell dad about all of it. I was just still hesitating in mind whether to tell dad everything. Especially about the end of the day. About Rohit. I don’t know but somehow I have to tell him. After all I can only talk to him about this and he might have a good answer for that. 

As it had started raining, Rohit left a bit late when it stopped raining. The sky was clear then. While leaving we didn’t talk much about evening and even he has also behaved as if he didn’t say anything. We shook hands and I felt his hand so cold. Was it because of climate or because I was tensed? Whatever, I was relieved that he left. 

Later, I slowly started telling my dad about my day. He listened to me carefully and observed me. I liked him when he listens to all my stories so patiently. I think he can even read or guess that there is something more I want to tell him. After our dinner, I even told about Rohit also. There he listened to me seriously again as if he was waiting for this part. I wonder how he can know. Did Rohit gave any idea before itself to make dad to guess, or am I that easy to read?

Listening to me completely till I finished, he asked his first question. “What did you say to him?”

“I didn’t tell him anything dad. I said I don’t know what to say. He too said nothing. Later we reached home and rest of it you know what happened here.” I said. 

“Do you too miss him?” he asked.

“No dad. I would have known it na, If I missed him.” I said.

“But, even he had come to know it now only na. You said like that.” He said smiling.

“Oh. Come on dad. If he feels like that, that doesn’t mean that I too have to feel in that way.” I said. “What my point is, my days were so normal and I am happy all these days as happy as I felt in school. He says that he feels his days are different after school. So, I didn’t miss him as he missed me. What was that supposed to mean then?” I asked him. 

“You might have not missed him baby. But, I missed him my dear.” He said in reply.

“What? Dad, now you too don’t play with me. How can you miss him? You don’t even know him.” I said.

“I know him dear. I know him all your school time.” He said.

“Is it? But how do you know? He didn’t even come to our house. Not even once.” I asked in surprise.

“You used to tell me about him daily. You were so irritated about his activities. Firstly I thought of coming to school and complain about him who bothers my daughter much. But, you never asked me for that. Each day you said how you faced him like a brave girl. I laughed at your stories at the same time I found myself interesting in listening to them. When we were alone you used to tell more about him. In fact, after school you used to wait for me to come home and listen about him. I won’t say anything but, you love to tell about him. After school you were happy that he won’t bother you much. But, I sometimes wonder what he might be doing somewhere. Sometimes, I even wanted to see him. But he never came to our house as you said. Later when you joined college, you never told about him or thought about him. You also became busy with your new friends, new college and studies. Even though you told me few things about your college you didn’t seem so interested to talk to me about them daily which means all your days are same and nothing different and interesting. Meanwhile our talks were reduced. I missed your school talks with me otherwise I can say, I missed him as most of your talks were about him only. I never told you this.” He said. 

I was surprised again. I stood there shocked again. When I heard the same thing from Rohit, I somehow managed to say something. But now it is about me hearing from my dad. I couldn’t believe my ears. I feel like I was someone new. What am I doing till now? How can I not know what I am and how I felt and behaved? My dad was looking at me and I felt something warm on my cheeks. I touched it. It is my tears. I didn’t feel them coming. I ran to my dad and hugged him tight. I don’t know why I was crying, but I cried hard. Even my dad didn’t say anything. I don’t want to hear anything much. I had enough for the day. When I was done with my tears, my dad took me to my room. He gave me water. I felt better but still I don’t know what was going in my mind and my heart. 

“Daddy” I said.

“Shh.. Just sleep well. Don’t think anything. Everything will be fine.” He said.
He was about to say good night to me, my mobile beeped letting us to know that I have got a message. He took it and saw. It was from Rohit’s. He gave it to me. I saw the message silently. I smiled and I showed it to him.

“Just sleep well. Don’t think anything. Everything will be fine.” It says.

“Ha ha…  He seems same like me. He thinks like me na. I liked him.” My dad said and laughed. I too laughed with him and then I don’t know why I blushed
.
My dad made a face and said, “Wow. My daughter is blushing now. Did I miss something?” He asked me laughing.

“Nothing.” I nodded and said, “You are really someone special to me daddy.” I said. 

“You too my dear.” My dad said.

“Love you dad” I said hugging him and I know what his response will be.