I grew out of awkwardness with time, and our friendship became better. We talk almost daily. I was already on my phone by 8 waiting for his text.

-How was your day?

-Fine. How was yours.

-It was good, we won the interschool competition.

-Congratulations.

-Umm, I want to ask you something.

-Go ahead.

-Can we exchange numbers?

-Ummm.

-Don't do it if you are uncomfortable. I won't ask again.

-Hold up Rajdhani express. Give me your number I'll call you.

-Phew. I was worried.

-You overthink way too much.

-Okay mam. Not thinking much anymore. Here's my number.

-87********

I dialed the number and waited for him to pick up. He picked up the call on first ring.

"Hello." His voice was slow and steady.

"Hello?" He said again.

"Hey, It's me." I said.

"Hey."

None of us talked as we could'nt find words to form.

"It's awkward." I said

"To some extent." He replied.

"So?"

"So. I'll think about what to say and call you back."

"Okay." I said and laughed as he ended the call.