❝ Life has given me a lot of Surprises... Some Shocked Me, Some Rocked Me,
But, You Were the Most Unique of All...
The One Who Loved Me... ☺️

At Times, It's Difficult To Gel With Someone, But, Once You Get Closer, There's Never Looking Back. ❞
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MEERA'S POV

" C'mon Meera, get in quick. Have some water." Alan broke the one minute awkward silence.

" Kush, What are you waiting for? A personal invitation? You are late for the 9th time."
From his speak, I suppose it was their team leader.

" Leo, What are you, 10 ? Who the hell is keeping the counts?" He slumped into his chair grabbing a bottle of water and I watched him gulping down in a go.

I didn't intend to stalk but his demeanor wasn't something that would go unnoticed.

We were still exchanging grumpy glances. I never thought I'll have to see his face again. An Idiot, also without manners.
I could feel that everyone was closely observing us now. I never had some much public attention in life.
He had an air around him as if the world revolves him.

" Meera, did you bring the files? " Alan pulled me back.

" Yup! Alan, You even forgot the pendrive. Here Take it. It was a hell of a ride getting here. " I sighed.

" Oh, Meera you're such a sweetheart. Thanks a ton. So guys let me introduce you all to Leo. He's the incharge here. These are his guys. Do catch up coz we all need to work in harmony for the project. "

I saw Leo's team. All were smiling except one. He still had that glum face. I don't know how am I gonna work with that fella. Our first meeting wasn't sweet happy joy ride.
Anyways, I don't that should matter. I have to concentrate on my work. I feel they already had an introduction while I was busy running around and solving mysteries .

I exchanged some formal hi's and hello's.

Apart from Kush their team also consisted 4 volunteers and 3 experts. There was only 1 girl from their side. She's Addie. Seemed humble and sweet one with blonde, straight shoulder length hair and green eyes.

Leo was speaking to Bob and Alan. I was just loitering around when I heard not so familiar voice, it had to Kush's.

This guy is definitely gonna be a pain in my ass.

" Oh! Miss Arrogance... How come you landed here? I thought you were after my cheese sandwich. " I looked at him and he harboured that typical bad-boy grin.

I felt blood rush up my cheeks.

" For an Idiot like you, I feel it's none of your business. And talking about cheese sandwiches, you better keep them safe in your 'God's Protection' or else your midnight snack may only be an imaginary snack for you. " I had a good back up answer for him.

There's no way I'm letting Kush - good for nothing - let me bully like this.
I returned that bad-boyish smirk and before he could counter again, I heard a shout out. It was Leo.

" Guys, we'll start our work from tomorrow. Today, I need to show Alan, Bob and Rohan the campus. All volunteers can go to attend their classes. We'll meet tomorrow here at same time. Hoping that everyone is on time."
Maybe he was referring to me and Kush. As much as Kush didn't care, so did I.
Coz, Not everyday is a Sunday and there's no chance I'll be late again, ever.

" We also need to discuss some important aspects. So, team see you all at university for a brisk meeting in the evening." Rohan spoke after a long time. They were in a grave discussion.

When we were just about to leave when Kush, Addie and I suppose one was Joe and other Paul came by. It's kinda hard at times to remember all the names.

Kush spoke, " Hey! Nice to meet you all. I'm sure it'll be great working together."

" Ya... Hope this project brings in new friendship." It was Jenny.

Why is she so chirpy always? I definitely want to get along but there's only one person who's gonna be a real pain.

It wasn't just my confidence, it was a strong intuition.

" So... Why don't you all come along. We'll show you our campus and the magnanimous stage that's in process of accomplishment." It was Addie.

Adam, Jenny and Ron readily agreed. I was exhausted. I had my office files to tally and some designs to submit.

" Hey! You guys carry on. I'm heading back I've some work to complete."

" C'mon Meera, have some fun..." Ron called out.

I refused. Jenny too forced me but I was too tired.
They all left and I picked up my bag and was about to leave when I noticed one person who was still around.

" Boring Meera is too busy I suppose..." He said.

God knows why he speaks so much.
As If I care what he has to say.

" Look, talking to you won't even be the last of my priorities. I'll be on my way you while you be on yours."

" Bloody Hell. You're more arrogant than I imagined you'd be. I'm here being nice to you and look at you..." It wasn't a shout but it neither wasn't a pleasant speech.

" Really? Starting a conversation with negative compliments is good start. I appreciate it. Coz, it only proves that you really are what I thought... " I began walking away.

" And what did the brilliant brain of yours thought?" He asked folding his hand as I turned to answer.

The normal me usually wouldn't answer but today I was in a mood to.

" That you really are an good for nothing Idiot... "

" Whatever... But, remember that we have to work together... I usually don't forget people like you so easily. " I heard him.

" Good for you, coz I crash into idiots people like you on every second day... " I didn't bother a second look but I knew he had already picked his haversack kind of bag up and was close behind me.

I knew I won't get along with a person like him from the moment I first saw him in the room.

" If that arrogance is for everyone you meet than it's normal but if it's reserved for special people like me then I'm afraid... "

" You're really...." I stopped midway, shook my head sideways and briskly walked down the stairs.

He's a sloth sticking unnecessary to me.

Jerk.

I was pretty sure he wasn't behind me anymore.

He doesn't deserve my reply. There is nothing special in anyone.
God knows what that person thinks of himself.

I went towards the university grounds. There is a humongous tree on the north side of our wing. It's usually deserted and peaceful place. I had some reports to type. I settled down and pulled my laptop when my cell rang. It was Dad.

" Dad, howz you? Where is Mom?"

" Hi! Sweetie. She's out running some errands. I thought I'd call you or else you both have decided not to let me speak. "

" Oh! C'mon... " I laughed.

" The main motive for this call was to ask you whether you're comfortable living at your apartment or else I've my friend..."

" No! Dad. The flat is cozy and sharing it with Tara is a blessing. I'm fine. " I assured him.

" OK! If you say so. What's happening new ? We know you have a assignment now. Met someone? " They are always like those typical Indian parents, no matter how hard they refuse the fact that they aren't.

They surely want to know about my love life and that's the only thing I'm so sure of. It's never gonna happen, not in this lifetime.

" Meera... You there?"

" Uh... Yeah... Not anyone interesting. But surely an Idiotic Brat. He's Cocky as hell. It's like all those guys who haven't even started with the film industry, but already look themselves as stars. Mannerless. His ego was way higher than his stature... "

" Woowoohhh, Easy Girl. You're on fire with this guy. He's a He. Afterall.... Beware... "

" C'mon, Daddy.... Stop laughing. It's so irritating. I'm so pissed off. "

" I'll have fun telling this to your mom. Anyways jokes apart. You keep up with your studies and work. And yes, Take a break too. Go for outings, hang out with friends. Have fun..." He thinks I'm a bore.

" Yes! Dad .. I've Work to do now. So, catch up. Give Mom my love. Will Skype you soon.. Bye.. " I hung up with a smile.

It's a complete feeling, always.

🌟🌟🌟

KUSH' S POV

Being in Cleveland was my sole choice. Mom was adamant that I study in Los. Angeles but I liked Cleaveland from the moment I first came here with Dad for a tour. I've been here since 8 months now. Life's chilled out here. For a person like me who wants to taste each and every flavor of life, Cleveland isn't a bad place to start with.

Night life, parties and girls, it's a package in all.

I was extremely very busy from the last few days. Work has been equally demanding. So, last night I took a beak and went out for some drinks with friends. I met someone there. I think I'll be meeting her again, maybe.
It was a mild night and I was up at 7 already.

The West Side offers the campus's best view early in the morning.
There I sat in solitude. Grasping the freshness and inhaling the pureness.

My phone beeped. It was Joe. The message read..

" Where the heck are you? It's already 10:00. The meeting is just about to begin."

Oh! Shit! How can I forget the meeting. Gathering my sack, I walked hurriedly towards the rendezvous. Just as I tilted my head to look behind as the sound of brisk steps caught my attention, I saw her through the shimmering sunshine.
Running through the corridors without bothering a look around.
Before, I could change my course we met with a collision.

What a temperament! As if anger was resting on the tip of her nose. I was about to apologise but I think she didn't deserve it either.
Now I've ended up with her in the same project.

I saw her walking away without even answering me. No one does that to me, ever. Wait till she repents it. I'll make sure next time Miss Arrogance answers them all. I preferred to be alone most of the times when I want to work. I was in the Activity Room. All by myself. Sometimes it gives pleasure to just be alone and compose oneself. My cell was ringing. It was Dad.

" Hey, Champ... What's up?"

" Nothing as such Dad." I replied.

" Kush, your Mom is extremely persistent that you shift from the condo you're living to the Duplex she's found for you." Man! My Mom. She's so worried.

" Dad! I'm comfortable here. What will I do all alone in the Duplex. A one room condo is more than enough. I think you both should stop worrying. " I laughed.

" I'm not worried at all. I know you're enjoying more than you should be." He laughed.

" Yeah! Anyways how is your shooting going on? Mom said you were in London for the last segment." I moved the conversation on.

" Yup, all's well. The Film is gonna be good. Hopefully, it's gonna be loved by the audience.
Did you make any new friends apart from the girl-friends you brag about? The new team you were talking about. "

" Don't know about new friends but Yes, I've made a new opponent for sure, early in the morning to be precise. She is just way too much to handle....? "

" Oh! So it's a girl again..." Dad is never gonna change when it comes to pull my legs.

" Yup, she is well I don't know what to say but I'm sure we're definitely not gonna get along well. Our first meeting started with a fight. "

" Haha!! Don't mind much. It doesn't suit your personality. Also, don't be an ass to her." He knows me well.

Usually, people prefer me more as a friend then as an enemy.

" Hmmm... Yaya.. Bye then. Will catch up later Dad... Do update me with the movie promotions. I'll try to come. "

" Of course. I want you and Danny to be there if possible. You too keep me informed. I'd love to hear more about your new mystery girl-friend. Bye... Take care... "

She's a girl but a friend, it comes with a -no time sooner- prefix.

My Dad is my Superstar. He works so hard and always ends up devoting his time to me. I want to meet his expectations too, hopefully I think I'll be able to. Being his son itself brings so much responsibility and expectations.

I moved out of the Activity Room. I was walking through the corridor when the morning incident brought a smile on my face. Don't know why but recalling the pettiness of Meera made me laugh.

I went on the terrace of our building. It wasn't as sunny. The clouds were covering up the sun with the breeze flowing at its best.

I liked being here and just watching the world move around the clock down. It's always isolated.
I bring my binoculars along with me. I enjoy bird watching. Small sparrows, pigeons, different species of woodpeckers and if I'm lucky then Blue Jays and Finches too. There's a plethora of huge trees all around the vicinity. We even have acres of lush fields just behind the University. It's fun glazing down at the small birds making nests, feeding the young chicks and the butterflies and bees buzzing around.

Near South End we've a hang out joint, Rudy's selling juices, coffee and snacks. I saw Joe, Addie and Paul along with Jenny, Ron and Adam. They seemed to be having a good time together. I could even see 'Trinity's' ground.

After, strolling around the place, near their ground, beneath a shady tree I saw her.

Meera.

Under the tree, her mid-length straight black hair were swaying peacefully while she was typing on her laptop. I think she likes being along too.

Surely one thing, we've in common.

She looks too serene doing something. Her face looked compost even from such a distance. Sometimes, I think I'm good at reading people. Her foul mood was repaired, meaning that she met or spoke to someone who calms her down.

Good for her.

Enough of assuming, guessing and stalking, Kush. I told myself as I rested
there for a while before returning to my condo which was half an hours drive from here. We didn't have any classes today as the mid terms were completed a day before.

A cheese pizza with a good movie would be perfect to end an interesting day with a beautiful morning and a fight full encounter.

My cell beeped.

" Let's meet at 7. Same place..."

A grin played on my lips.

Aaah....
A think there's a change of plan. Swiftly with move of my wrists I turned the steering wheel in the opposite direction.

My phone beeped again. WhatsApp messages can be super annoying sometimes. I swiped them left.

The screen flashed our family picture. When family isn't right there, their pictures keep us going. It's soothing to just look at them. Speaking to Dad was a blessing today.

It's a complete feeling, always.

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Hey! Guys...

A Chapter bringing out their personalities and relationships with their family.

Things look calm but they've just started.

Keep Reading and Supporting.

Thanks for Reading.

Do Check my first work
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Luv... ❤️
Vruksha.