"Good morning, Coach, myself Aayan Dev" Aayan greets Harshit Makhija enthusiastically, extending his hand.
Astonishingly, Mr. Makhija beams, "Oh, welcome aboard, Aayan! I've heard remarkable things about your team's performance in the states. We're fortunate to have you join us. So, what position are you eyeing?"
Aayan replies confidently, "Sir, I leave that decision to you. I'm eager to prove myself in the trials."
"But Aayan, you're a state captain! You have the privilege to choose," Mr. Makhija insists.
Aayan's eyes sparkle with determination as he asserts, "I'd rather earn my place on the team than take it for granted, sir."
"Very well then," Mr. Makhija agrees, impressed by Aayan's humility. "You'll need to score two goals from each side within 10 minutes, competing against all 24 players on the field. Let's see if you can back up your words."
With the timer set, Aayan takes a deep breath, his focus intensifying as he prepares to showcase his skills. As the whistle blows, he explodes into action, his movements fluid and precise as he weaves through the opposing players with grace and determination.
Spectators lining the field watch in awe as Aayan effortlessly maneuvers past defenders, his speed leaving them in awe. The sound of his cleats pounding against the turf echoes through the stadium, a testament to his unwavering determination.
With each goal he scores, the crowd erupts into cheers, their applause echoing across the field. Even Mr. Makhija, usually reserved and stoic, can't help but show a hint of astonishment as he watches Aayan's performance unfold.
As the final whistle blows, Aayan stands triumphant, his chest heaving with exertion but a victorious smile on his face. The once-seated spectators rise to their feet, their applause thunderous as they show their appreciation for Aayan's incredible display of skill and determination.
Even those who were merely passing by stop to watch, drawn in by the spectacle unfolding before them. Aayan's performance has captivated the entire stadium, leaving everyone in attendance in awe of his jaw-dropping abilities.
As Aayan makes his way off the field, he can't help but feel a sense of pride swell within him. He may have only been given 10 minutes to prove himself, but in just 6 minutes and 30 seconds, he's managed to leave a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed his performance.
Almost famished from his exertions and having a quick shower, Aayan decides to skip lunch and head straight to class. As he enters the lecture hall, Mrs. Bose's stern gaze meets his, and he braces himself for the consequences of his tardiness.
"Latecomers aren't tolerated in my class, especially male ones," Mrs. Bose declares, her voice carrying across the room. "But since you're here, come in."
Taking his seat in the back row of L4 block, Aayan's mind races with thoughts of the morning's events. However, his reverie is interrupted when he realizes he's misplaced his wallet. Normally meticulous with his belongings, this oversight surprises him. Resigned to his mistake, he remains seated for the rest of the class, determined to make up for lost time.
As the class comes to an end, Aayan hurriedly gathers his belongings, eager to head out. Suddenly, a soft yet harmonious voice calls out, "Mr. Dev... Mr. Dev, here." Turning around, he sees her for the first time - Swara Makhija, the daughter of his coach, Mr. Harshit Makhija.
Aayan feels momentarily lost, his gaze drawn to Swara's captivating eyes. He feels a flutter of unease, unsure how to react in her presence. Swara stands before him, dressed in a white salwar and blue-lined pants, her hair cascading over her glasses in a perfect frame. She was like a rose sitting on petals of jasmine. Her rosy lips perfectly allingned with the mole on its left just below the tiny beautiful nose.
Swara waves at him with a wide, beautiful smile that lights up her face, and in that moment, Aayan feels a warmth spread through him. Her smile, her presence, it all adds to her allure in his eyes.
"Your wallet, sir," Swara says, her tone playful yet gentle. "You should be more careful while talking to girls. Dropping your things here and there doesn't suit you." She laughs lightly, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Aayan chuckles nervously, feeling a surge of chemistry between them. "Thank you, uhhh..", "Swara," she replies. " Yeah Swara, I'll make sure to hold of my belongings next time." he gracefully says.
Their eyes meet, and for a moment, time seems to stand still. Aayan finds himself drawn to Swara's magnetic presence, his heart beating a little faster from her comfort.
And then with a final smile, Swara bids him a bye and disappears into the crowd, leaving Aayan standing there, feeling a newfound sense of anticipation and excitement.
As he watches her retreating figure, with a smile playing on his lips, Aayan heads out of the classroom, his heart lighter than it's been in a long time. He felt something which he was not used to.
Little does he know, his life is about to change in ways he never imagined, all because of a chance encounter with a girl named Swara.
YOU ARE READING
Echoes of the Field: Love's Bittersweet Symphony
RomanceIn the bustling streets of Kolkata, where dreams soar as high as the iconic Howrah Bridge, lies a tale of love, loss, and the beautiful game that binds them together. Meet Aayan, a 20-year-old student at Presidency University of Calcutta, whose hear...