Ma made dosa today.

I know how much you love them, you were all I thought about while I dipped the pieces of dosa in coconut chutney. I remember you telling me that late at night, you used to sneak out with your friends and eat Mumbai's famous street food. Those countless nights eating pav bhaji, pani puris and whatnot.

I also remember you saying that you took your girlfriend Divya to your favourite South Indian restaurant on your first date. You really liked her, loved her even. But neither of you could handle the struggles that came with a long-distance relationship and eventually, you both had to call it quits.

You got so drunk that night and puked all over Nova's front porch. I know this because I was there, along with Giselle and Zara for a sleepover. Nova had to help you get up and slapped you a couple of times because of how inebriated you were. Then, even in your drunken stupor, you looked at her in a different light, with a glimmer in your eyes.

A glimmer that will never be directed at me.

About two months later, Giselle would call me up and tell me excitedly about how you were going to ask Nova out on a date. I had to fake so much excitement outside while my heart was just tearing itself into pieces. About two days later, I, along with the entirety of the junior class would witness you asking her out right in the middle of the cafeteria. We would also see her rejecting you with pity in her eyes, saying that you were one of her best friends, and nothing more.

You looked so downcast, so sad, that I wanted to hug you then and there and never let go. Alas, these little fantasies of mine are but dreams that will forever remain tucked in the most secretive corners of my imagination.

• Author's Note •

For those of you who don't know, dosa is a traditional south indian dish made from a rice-based batter. Pav bhaji and pani puri are indian snacks.

Also, i tried adding a personalised touch to this chapter and I'm not sure if it worked out so please give me your opinions through comments and votes! Hope you enjoyed this chapter :)