C13 CHAPTER-13

“Rajeev, can you accompany me to the library after class today”? Akhil asked. “Sure thing dude, but I find it strange that you have suddenly developed such a fondness for books”, Rajeev replied as they walked past the temple on their way to class. “You see, life is all about making the right adjustments at the right time”, Akhil said. “We'll see about that”, Rajeev replied.

“Let's go”, Akhil said as soon as classes were over. “There is a slight change in plans. I think you have not been to the roof-top cafe, have you? It's a nice place for spending some time with friends”, he continued as he led the way. “But you told me”, Rajeev tried to protest but was cut short by Akhil who motioned him to keep quiet. “Sorry, I made you wait for too long. But why didn't you attend the last class”, Akhil said to someone as he walked into the cafe with Rajeev some distance behind him. “By the way, he is my best buddy Rajeev, also from Guwahati”, Akhil said as Rajeev suddenly stood face to face with Jyotika for the first time. “Hi Rajeev, guys she is Tulika Subramanian”, Jyotika replied as she introduced her friend to the boys.

“Well Akhil, I just felt like taking a break. Attending four to five consecutive classes is so boring”, she added. As soon as they found themselves a nice place in the corner, Akhil signalled to a waiter to take their orders. “Get us French fries, sandwiches and a cup of coffee each”, Akhil placed the order after consulting the others. “So Tulika, you are like my friend I guess. Don't speak too much, do you”? Akhil asked. “I like listening to other people speak”, she replied in a voice that had that typical South-Indian accent. “So how you guys did become such close friends? I mean you seem to be poles apart”, Tulika asked. “Well that is a long story but I guess you will be able to get a fair idea just by observing us”, Akhil replied.

“And by the way, Rajeev is quite a charmer once he gets over his initial hesitation. Just give him a chance”, Akhil added with a naughty smile which earned him an angry poke on his elbow from Rajeev. Tulika's mobile beeped. “Sorry guys got to go. My dad is here to pick me up”, she said as she hurriedly picked up her belongings and left. “Jyotika, what are you doing tomorrow”, Akhil asked suddenly as Rajeev looked nervously away from the table. “Nothing much, why”? She replied. “Would you like to join me for lunch”? Akhil asked with an abruptness that even stunned the lady. “Okay, but it has to be a place nearby. I want to relax and catch up with my studies during holidays”, she replied. “Are you joining us, Rajeev”? She asked. “Umm no, he fasts on Saturdays”, came the reply from Akhil even before Rajeev could open his mouth. “Okay then, shall we leave”? Akhil asked as he stood up. “I have already settled the bill”, he said when he saw Jyotika rummaging through her bag.