Rhythms of the Heart ✅

18

As the waitress approached their table, her demeanor became overly flirty, showering Neel with compliments that extended beyond professionalism. Malang, feeling irritated, discreetly coughed to regain her attention, but she remained unresponsive, further fueling Malang's annoyance.

Flirty Waitress: (with a suggestive smile) Well, hello there handsome! I must say, we don't get many customers as charming as you around here.

Neel (uncomfortably): Uh, thank you. We're just here for some food.

Flirty Waitress: (winking) Lucky for us, I say. What brings you two to this lovely establishment?

Malang (trying to redirect): We heard the food here is great. Can we see the menu, please?

Flirty Waitress: (ignoring Malang and focusing on Neel) Oh, the food is excellent, but I'm sure it's not the only thing you'll find delightful here. What can I get you, handsome?

Neel (awkwardly): We'll just take a look at the menu first.

Flirty Waitress: (leaning in) Don't hesitate to ask if you need anything else, especially you, handsome. Enjoy your meal!

Malang finally spoke up, his tone firm, "Excuse me, we're here to enjoy our meal, not for this."

The waitress dismissed Malang with a dismissive glance, continuing her behavior. Neel, initially hesitant, couldn't tolerate her rudeness any longer. He was about to voice his objection when another waitress intervened, scolding her co-worker for her unprofessional conduct.

Emily: (apologizing to Neel and Malang) I'm so sorry about that. We strive for a pleasant dining experience. Rachel can be a bit... too friendly. Please accept our apologies.

Malang (smiling): No problem. Just focus on the service, thank you.

Emily: (looking at Neel and Malang) By the way, you two make a very cute couple. Enjoy your meal!

Neel and Malang exchanged wide-eyed glances, realizing the staff had mistaken them for a couple. The revelation hung in the air, and Malang, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and amusement, withdrew their intertwined hands swiftly. Neel, however, experienced a subtle sense of loss as Malang pulled away.

The staff's assumption created an unspoken shift in their dynamic, and as they continued to eat in silence, it was no longer filled with awkwardness but rather a newfound happiness.
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,As they stepped out of the restaurant, the lingering laughter between them echoed in the cool evening air. The awkwardness from the staff's misunderstanding transformed into a shared amusement, deepening their connection.

Malang, catching his breath from the laughter, looked at Neel with sparkling eyes, appreciating the genuine joy they found in the midst of confusion. The playful atmosphere heightened the beauty of the moment, and their laughter gradually faded into a comfortable silence.

Their eyes met, locking into an unspoken connection that spoke volumes. In that silent exchange, a myriad of emotions swirled – understanding, friendship, and an undeniable bond that had grown stronger through the ups and downs of their college days.

The dim streetlights illuminated their faces, casting a warm glow that mirrored the emotions bubbling beneath the surface. The air was charged with an unspoken energy, leaving them suspended in a moment that felt significant.

Neel, with a soft smile playing on his lips, broke the silence, "Well, that was unexpected."

Malang chuckled, "Indeed. Life has its own way of surprising us."

The words hung in the air, and as they continued walking side by side, a newfound ease enveloped them, making the night feel magical – a testament to the resilience of their friendship amid the twists and turns of college life.
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Suddenly, a man approached and embraced Malang from behind, taking him by surprise. Malang turned to find it was Roy, his old friend. They shared a warm, long hug, and Malang introduced Neel to Roy as his best friend.

Roy: (complimenting Neel) "Man, you're well-built! Malang, you've got a good taste in friends."

Neel: (smirking) "Thanks, appreciate it."

Malang: (to Roy) "You should join us to meet the others, Roy."

Roy: (politely declining) "I wish I could, but I've got some work. Just wanted to drop by and say hi."

Malang: (pouting) "Come on, Roy, at least promise you'll be there to watch my dance tomorrow."

Roy: (agreeing) "Alright, I'll make it. Send me the passes. See you guys!"
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Neel, observing the camaraderie between Malang and Roy, felt a pang.... but didn't express it. After Roy's departure, Neel drove Malang to his dorm, and before parting, Malang thanked him for the day.

Neel: (to Malang) "Thanks for the day."

Malang: "No, thank you, Neel. I had a great time."
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Neel watched Malang head towards his dorm, a mix of emotions swirling within. As he drove away, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease caused by the unexpected encounter with Roy. The lingering thought, "Why am I feeling like this?" crossed his mind, but he pushed it aside, focusing on the road ahead. The upcoming dance performance lingered in the air, promising a night filled with both excitement and unspoken tensions.