Dev's P.O.V.

Arya is an absolute whirlwind of amusement. Her humor packs a punch, and her laughter spreads like wildfire. But what really stands out is how approachable she is. Even though we've only just met, it feels like we've been friends for ages. She's a pro at starting conversations, while I fumble through opening lines, and she seems to have no "off" button.

As the class ends, Arya gears up for action. "You won't believe this, but that teacher who disappeared? Rumor has it, they were caught up in a steamy affair with the Math teacher. But here's the kicker, they had a massive showdown just the other day..."

"Here we go again," Raj jokes, swiveling in his seat to face her. "Aren't you heading to the canteen? Your 'special someone' must be eagerly waiting," he teases, winking at her.

Arya's eyes widen, and she glances at me. "Don't mind him. Nobody's waiting. He's just teasing," she explains, going back to her book, though her disinterest is crystal clear. Then, something changes in her expression, like a mental switch flipping. "Hold on... I think I'm getting summoned. Be right back," she declares, springing from her chair.

As Arya reaches the door, Raj shouts after her, "Yeah, probably your secret admirer calling!"

"Nope, it's more likely your mystery sweetheart!" she shouts back before disappearing.

During the break, students scatter-some heading to the canteen, others wandering aimlessly. And there I am, a human statue, clutching my lunchbox like a nervous security blanket. It dawns on me that I might be the only one here still sporting a lunchbox. Who does that anymore? After all, we're in 11th grade now, not kids.

But there it is, my lunchbox, a relic of simpler times. What should I do with it? Reveal its contents? Nah, that doesn't sound like fun. Who in their right mind brings a lunchbox at this age? And what if someone notices and pokes fun at me? Even though everyone seems indifferent, I'd rather not become the punchline. Holding onto a lunchbox in the era of canteens is as sensible as wearing a raincoat indoors. I can't afford to be the center of attention on day one. After some contemplation, I decide not to open the lunchbox. Just as I'm about to stash it away in my bag, that familiar, soothing voice chimes in.

"What's in it?" I pivot to find Raj looming behind me. Oh dear, he's noticed the lunchbox! Brace yourself for the teasing onslaught.

"My mom must've sneaked it in without my knowledge. I didn't plan on bringing it," I quip, attempting a laugh that comes out more like a weary huff-a sigh with a touch of chuckle, like an old, weathered dog.

Raj nods sympathetically. "So, you're in the dark too about its contents? Let's see," he plucks the lunchbox from my grip and gives it an exaggerated sniff. "Sandwiches?"

He pops it open and declares with the triumphant demeanor of a detective solving a case, "I knew it. So, your mom's culinary magic at work?"

I give a nod. "Yeah, seems that way."

He sighs, his grin fading as he stares intently at the sandwiches for a moment.

Something feels off. Should I ask? Is it okay to dive into personal stuff with someone I just met? Should I check if something's up with his mom? But is it okay to pry into such personal matters? Before I can work up the courage to ask, his pout gets even more pronounced, and he sighs again, his emerald eyes fixed on the sandwiches. "Mind if I snag one? They do look pretty tempting."

Goodness, his emerald eyes are like sparkling gems, oozing innocence and charm as he plays the cute card. His smile is a warm beacon, spreading a cozy feeling through my chest. His lips are soft and rosy, and when he press them together, my heart does a little dance. The way his dark hair dances in the breeze is simply mesmerizing, like a captivating dance of shadows and moonlight. Every part of him feels like a living work of art. Who could possibly resist such an enchanting presence?

"Can I?" he asks again, snapping me out of my thoughts.

The pout returns, "If you'd rather not share, that's cool. I won't be as generous with my notes."

"Sure, go ahead," I manage, feeling my cheeks warm with a gentle blush.

He chuckles, and I can't help but join in, not because it's laugh-out-loud funny, but because his laughter is contagious. It's pure and carefree. Now, the air feels a bit lighter, all thanks to these two captivating souls.

As Raj takes a bite of one of the sandwiches from my lunchbox, and his eyes light up in approval. It's a small, reassuring victory. Maybe this isn't so bad after all.

"You know, since you're new here, would you like me to show you around the school?" Raj offers, his voice warm and inviting.

I'm taken aback for a moment, surprised by his generosity. "Really? You'd do that?"

Raj nods, his smile unwavering. "Of course! It can be overwhelming on your first day, and having someone to show you the ropes can make things a lot easier."

I can't help but feel a wave of relief and gratitude wash over me. "That would be amazing. Thank you."

As we walk through the unfamiliar corridors of my new school, my heart pounds with anxiety.

"Hey, Dev, ready to explore the maze of mysteries they call a school?" Raj grins, his enthusiasm infectious. I nod, trying to muster a smile despite my anxiety. "Lead the way."

We stroll down the hallway, and Raj can't resist cracking jokes to lighten the atmosphere. "You know, Dev, this place is like a secret society. First rule of high school: You don't talk about high school. Second rule: Always have snacks in your locker for emergencies."

I chuckle, genuinely appreciating Raj's efforts to make me feel at ease. "Snacks in the locker, got it. What's the third rule?"

"The third rule," Raj says with a dramatic pause, "is to never, ever ask the cafeteria lady what's in the mystery meat. Trust me on that one."

I burst into laughter, confused about why that might be a rule.

Raj is like a burst of energy, always ready with a witty remark and a contagious laugh. He notices the tension in my shoulders and flashes a mischievous grin. "Welcome to our world of high school drama and mystery. You're about to meet the cast of characters that'll make your head spin faster than algebra... even though we're from the bio steam, I know!"

His words draw a reluctant smile from me, and I can't help but appreciate his effort to lighten the mood. As we stroll down the bustling hallways, Raj gestures to a group of students huddled by their lockers, deep in conversation. "Over there, Dev, that's the 'Drama Queens and Kings' club. They rehearse melodramatic scenes from Shakespeare during lunch. Quite the show, I tell you!"

I chuckle softly, he has ability to inject humor into any situation. He continues our tour, pointing out the quirky features of the school. "And this," he announces, as we pass a bulletin board covered in colorful flyers, "is the 'Extracurricular Extravaganza,' where you can join clubs that range from chess to ghost-hunting. You never know what you might discover here."

I walk alongside Raj, my heart pounding with anxiety as I try to keep up with his cheerful demeanor. He is the complete opposite of me, outgoing and full of energy, while I remain introverted and anxious.

As we stroll towards the central library block, Raj's eyes sparkle with excitement, and he can't help but wear a mischievous grin, a reflection of the adventure ahead. "Alright, Dev," he says, his voice a whisper of anticipation, "next stop on our grand tour - the library!" With a dramatic flourish, he swings open the heavy wooden doors, and together, we cross the threshold into a sacred haven of knowledge. The silence here is profound, only occasionally disturbed by the soft rustle of turning pages. The scent of old pages, like a cherished memory, lingers in the air, wrapping around us like a warm, comforting embrace, reminding me that amidst the chaos of change, some things remain beautifully constant.

I follow Raj through the rows of shelves, my fingers lightly grazing the spines of the books. "So, Dev," Raj begins, his eyes twinkling with mischief, "if you were a book, what genre would you be?"

I can't help but smile at his question, despite my nerves. "Probably a mystery," I reply, "because, you know, it takes some unraveling to figure me out."

Raj chuckles. "Ah, the enigmatic Dev. I like it." He leads me to a cozy corner with plush armchairs. "This is the secret hideout for the time when you feel like this world is just too chaotic. It's the perfect place to disappear into another world."

Leaving the tranquil embrace of the library behind, we begin our journey towards the science building. The sun casts its warm glow upon the campus, casting long shadows that dance alongside us.

Raj, my steadfast companion, maintains his infectious enthusiasm. "Onward to the science building!" he declares, a touch of awe in his voice.

"You see, Dev, this is where the magic happens," he says with a mischievous grin as he pushes open the door to the chemistry lab. I follow him inside, trying to muster a smile.

The lab is a maze of gleaming glassware, bubbling beakers, and mysterious contraptions. I can't help but feel a bit overwhelmed. Raj, however, seems right at home.

"Welcome to the world of potions and explosions," Raj quips, waving his hand dramatically. "Just kidding, it's mostly just mixing stuff and hoping it doesn't blow up in your face."

I manage a weak chuckle, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood. "Yeah, I've heard chemistry can be... volatile."

Raj raises an eyebrow. "Ah, you've got a knack for chemistry jokes already! You'll fit right in here, Dev."

As Raj continues to show me around the lab, he keeps the banter going. He points at a row of test tubes and says, "And these are the infamous test tubes. Handle them with care, or they might retaliate."

We spend the next few minutes exploring the lab, Raj explaining some of the equipment and cracking jokes along the way. By the time we leave the chemistry lab, I'm still anxious, but the tight knot in my chest has loosened just a little. Thanks to Raj, this new school doesn't seem quite as intimidating as it did a few minutes ago.
...

The school day comes to a close with the chime of the bell. I gather my books and neatly arrange them in my backpack, preparing to make my exit.

"So, how'd your first day go?" Raj asks, adjusting his backpack on his shoulders.

Arya interjects before I can respond, a grin playing on her lips. "Do we even need to ask? It was probably a complete energy drain, like all first days."

I suppose my answer could have varied. Yes, it was fatiguing, but there was an undercurrent of novelty that kept the exhaustion at bay.

"Arya, you ever think about lending an ear instead of just chatting away?" Raj teases, his eyes dancing.

Arya playfully punches his arm. "And what profound wisdom do you have to share now?"

Raj feigns innocence. "Oh, nothing too deep. Right now, my growling stomach is louder than any insights."

His attention shifts to me. "And you? How're you getting back home?"

I finally have the chance to contribute. "My mom's picking me up."

"In that case, I'll be your escort to the gate," Raj suggests, casually slinging his arm around my shoulders. It catches me off guard, a mix of surprise and discomfort intertwining.

But then, a wave of memories from my previous school rushes in-a sea of closed doors, anguished cries, pleading, and tears. The scenes engulf me, a vice tightening around my chest, my heart racing in double time. Heat creeps up my neck, my palms becoming clammy.

Acting on impulse, I maneuver away from Raj, pretending to check my phone. Confusion flits across his face, surely wondering about my abrupt reaction. My silence persists, a chasm between me and explaining. It wasn't an invasive touch; it was soft and caring. Yet, I can't handle it. The sensation overwhelms, suffocates, as if those memories from months ago are still fresh wounds. I just...

"What's this 'I' business? I'm joining you guys as well. Imagine, a gorgeous girl like me gracing you both with my presence," Arya playfully boasts, a twinkle in her eye.

"She's at it again," Raj whispers into my ear. "Let's escape while we can." And so, we begin our journey toward the classroom exit.

"Hey, where are you two heading?" Arya swiftly catches up, her arm winding around Raj's shoulder.

"Hey, Dev..." she starts but is promptly cut off.

"Now what?" Raj interjects.

"You never told me you changed your name?"

"I didn't?" Raj's confusion is palpable.

"If you're not really Dev, why are you answering to it?" Arya quips, her hand playfully tapping Raj's head.

"Spectacularly witty," Raj sarcastically retorts.

"So, Dev, what's the story behind leaving your previous school?" Arya's curiosity is palpable.

I saw this coming. The moment I've been dreading arrives-"What happened to you at your old school?" The question hangs in the air, and my heart starts to race. What if I told them the truth? Would it alter our dynamic? I know my fear is irrational; whatever happened wasn't my mistake. But the burden of guilt still lingers. I can't bring myself to disrupt this newfound camaraderie with the fragments of my past. I have to answer, though.

"Um... actually... well..."

"Why are you so curious, Arya? Got a secret crush?" Raj chuckles.

Arya playfully swats Raj's head. "Come on, don't be ridiculous!"

"Hey, Arya, something's happening over there. Look, a group of students is gathering," Raj points in a specific direction.

"Seriously? Maybe some lovebirds got caught in the act?" Arya squints towards the indicated spot. "I'll go check it out." With that, she hurries away, leaving me with a sigh of relief.

However, Raj's attention swiftly shifts to me, and his voice drops in depth. "Dev."

Our eyes lock, and I find myself drawn into his emerald green orbs. Close up, they're even more mesmerizing-deep and alluring, as if they could hold me captive forever. They're not entirely still, yet they radiate warmth. The sunlight dances upon them, turning them into radiant pearls that seem to emit a divine glow. My attention shifts to his gentle, pink lips, and the feeling of his warm breath sends a shiver down my spine, enveloping my senses.

But then, a sudden realization hits me, and I quickly take a step back, breaking the enchantment. I glance at him once more, a hint of unease creeping in. He looks genuinely concerned, moving closer and gently holding my hands. Instinct tells me to pull away, but there's an oddly comforting sensation in his touch. It's tender and reassuring.

He begins to speak, his voice a soothing balm. "Dev, I may not know what's in your past, or why you changed schools, but you don't have to answer questions that make you uncomfortable. You shouldn't be burdened with painful memories. No one deserves to carry the burden of past. Because dwelling on the past will only make the present impossible."

How does he discern that my past still haunts me? Is it that obvious? How did he pick up on the fact that I didn't want to respond to that question?

"And if at any point you feel uncomfortable or dislike something, you can always talk to me directly. There's no need to resort to checking fake messages on your phone," he adds with a gentle chuckle.

"How did you..." I start, stumbling over my words as I try to comprehend how he seems to understand me so well. But once again, he's right.

"You're not hard to read," he smiles.

What does he mean by that? And why do I suddenly feel warmth spreading across my cheeks? A broad grin forms on my face, and I avert my gaze from his eyes. I understand that he's speaking generally, not specifically about me. Yet, every word he utters resonates deep within me, making it hard to breathe.

Gathering my composure, I withdraw my hands, attempting to shift the focus before he notices my blush. "Why didn't you go over there?" I nod toward the direction he had pointed out to Arya earlier.

"There's nothing there," Raj's mischievous smile spreads across his face, a sense of anticipation lingering in the air. Something is about to happen, and I can't help but be intrigued. Before I can even begin to unravel the mystery, Arya storms toward us, her annoyance evident in her stride. She confronts Raj directly, her voice laced with frustration.

"What kind of prank was that?" Arya's words cut through the air, her frustration unmistakable.

Raj feigns innocence. "What do you mean?" he responds, his tone dripping with mock ignorance.

Arya's frustration escalates, and she raises her voice. "It's an old bathroom that no one uses anymore, and those guys are just hanging out smoking!"

A smirk dances on Raj's lips as he revels in the unfolding drama. "So, you've been in this school for almost five years, and you didn't even know that's a bathroom," he taunts, unable to suppress his laughter.

Arya's face contorts with anger, her words dripping with emphasis. "I don't use boys' bathrooms!" she exclaims defiantly.

Raj dismisses her protest with a wave of his hand, ready to move on. "Okay, let's leave, Dev!" he suggests with a laugh, brushing off the confrontation.

Arya's incredulity is palpable. "What do you mean by 'let's leave, Dev'? I'm not planning to sleep here!" she retorts, her frustration boiling over.

Raj's mischievous grin widens as he throws another curveball. "Also, who is going to complete the pending physics assignment?" he teases, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.

Arya's face drains of color as realization hits her. "Oh, shoot! Hey, hey, hey, I completely forgot about that! Raj, you have to help me with that!" she pleads, desperation creeping into her voice as she clings to Raj's hand.

Raj abruptly pulls his hand away, his playful demeanor changing. "No, not at all. I am starving, and it's your fault you didn't complete it on time. Now, go to the library and complete it," he retorts, his voice firm and unsympathetic. "Let's leave, Dev."

Arya's voice echoes through the air as frustration mixes with disappointment. "You're not coming?" she calls out, her tone filled with a hint of betrayal.

"No," Raj dismisses her with a wave of his hand, turning his back on her.

As Raj and I make our way to the gate, a mixture of relief and anticipation washes over me. There, waiting by her car, is my mom. Our eyes meet, and a smile breaks across my face. She is radiant with joy, her eyes twinkling with pride. We embrace each other tightly, a warm hug that speaks volumes.

"How was your day, baby?" my mom asks, pulling away slightly to look into my eyes.

"You were so right, it was awesome. Everyone is friendly," I reply, stealing a glance at Raj, who stands beside me, a silent accomplice in my new journey.

"Mom, he is Raj," I introduce him, my voice filled with excitement.

"Namaste Aunty," Raj greets my mom politely.

"Namaste beta," my mom responds with a smile, her warmth embracing us both. Then she turns her attention back to me. "So, you've made friends, hmm?" she inquires, a twinkle in her eye.

I can't help but nod, a genuine smile spreading across my face. Yeah, I have.

...

As we make our way home, my mom can't contain her curiosity about my first day. She asks me question after question, eager to hear every detail. I eagerly recount my experiences, and with each story, my mom responds with genuine interest, her "Really?" and "Wow!" fueling my excitement.

Finally, we arrive home, and my mom abruptly declares, "Okay, enough! First, go and get fresh, then we'll have lunch. Go...go," as she gently pushes me towards the stairs.

"Okay, I'll be back in two minutes," I reply, dashing up the stairs to my room. I swing open the door, and what I see takes my breath away. Is this for real? Pinching myself, I realize it's not a dream. How can a day be so incredibly wonderful? I can hardly believe my luck. I'll have to thank my fate later, but for now, I need to take in this moment.

There, on my bed, lies a guitar. A real guitar! I can't contain my joy and let out a scream of pure happiness. It's the very thing I've been longing for, the guitar I've been asking for months but never received. Ever since I broke my old one last year, I've been yearning for a replacement. However, my dad always dismissed my requests, worried that it would affect my studies.

I rush over to the guitar and embrace it tightly, running my fingers along its strings. A note catches my eye, attached to the instrument.

"A beautiful guitar for my beautiful boy!"

Oh, Mom, you are truly the best. Tears of gratitude well up in my eyes. I don't know how she managed to persuade Dad, but she always works her magic.

"How's the surprise, baby?" I hear my mom's voice, and I turn to see her standing in the doorway, her smile radiating warmth and love. Oh, Mom, you are absolutely amazing.

"The BEST SURPRISE EVER!" I exclaim, rushing over to her and wrapping my arms around her. She returns the embrace, planting a tender kiss on my forehead. Overwhelmed with emotion, I shout in her ear, "You're the best mom ever! I love you, I love you SO MUCH!"

"If it disturbs your studies, it will be shown in the dustbin," a harsh voice interrupts from downstairs. I know exactly who it is, and none of us dares to challenge him.

"I promise it won't," I reply firmly from my room, hoping my words will be enough.

"You made your words," I say to my mom, pressing a gentle kiss against her cheek.

"I am a woman of my word," she chuckles, her love shining through.

"I love you, Mom," I say, my voice filled with deep affection.

"I love you too, my baby," she replies, hugging me once again. In her embrace, I feel a warmth that can only be found in my mom's arms, a love that is unconditional and unbreakable.

"Okay...okay, now get fresh and come downstairs for lunch," she instructs, reluctantly letting go.

"Just 2 minutes."

As my mom leaves the room, I remain seated on the bed, cradling my guitar like a precious baby. I handle it with utmost care, afraid it might break if I hold it too tightly. Oh, I still can't believe it's mine, my very own guitar! I examine every inch of this beautiful gift, savoring the moment, until I hear my mom's voice calling me once again from downstairs, reminding me of the next task at hand.

"Coming," I reply, gently placing the guitar back on the bed as if it were as delicate as glass. I can't afford to waste any more time here. I need to go downstairs before Dad starts another round of his relentless complaints. He's spoiled, thanks to Mom, and now he doesn't listen to anyone anymore.

As I make my way towards the door, my phone vibrates, drawing my attention. I pick it up and see a message illuminating the screen.

"Hey Dev, how was your day at your new school? Did you miss me?"

My heart skips a beat, and a sharp pang shoots through my chest, spreading to my shoulders. Could this really be from him? A mix of anxiety and anger churns within me. No, it can't be Vikram. He doesn't have my new number. But who else would message me in such a way? How does he even have my number? I quickly type a reply, my fingers trembling slightly.

"Who is this?"

I wait for a response, my heart pounding louder with each passing second. The phone remains silent for what feels like an eternity. Just as I'm about to put the phone down, a new message notification pops up.

"Oh, come on, Dev! Don't you recognize your old boyfriend."

My hands tighten around the phone, my heart now a mixture of shock and disbelief. Vikram? It's him, right? How did he find out my new number? What does he want now? Memories of the past flood my mind, the pain and humiliation he put me through. I can feel my heart racing faster, my breathing becoming shallow and rapid. I'm transported back to a time when I felt helpless, trapped, and terrified.

I can't allow him to disrupt my new life, the fresh start I've been desperately trying to build. With trembling fingers, I type a response, my words shaky but determined.

"I don't want to talk to you. Leave me alone."

I press the send button, my heart pounding in my chest as I wait for his response. The room feels suffocating, the memories of the past threatening to engulf me. I struggle to steady my breathing, to fight against the panic that threatens to consume me. I need to stay strong, to protect myself from his toxic presence. But deep down, I know that Vikram won't give up so easily.