Falling Into Oblivion

Chapter 3: The Challenge

Banhi and Dhriti sit anxiously across from the dean, who adjusts his glasses and looks at them sympathetically.

"Don't worry, girls. I'll look into the matter. In the meantime, try not to dwell on it too much," the dean reassures them.

"But sir, this isn't the first time. Something needs to be done. What if Gaurav's condition had been more serious?" Banhi insists.

"I understand, Banhi. These things take time. We will take the necessary action," the dean responds.

The girls leave the office, Banhi's frustration evident.

"Let's hope he actually does something," Dhriti says, concern in her voice.

"We can't just hope. We need to do something," Banhi replies determinedly.

Danish watches Banhi from a distance, intrigued by her resilience. His friends, noticing his gaze, start teasing him.

"Danish bhai, looks like you've been taking quite an interest in Banhi these days," Pranav remarks with a smirk.

"Yeah, you've been staring at her for a while now. Got a plan?" Ranveer adds, nudging Danish playfully.

Surendra chimes in, "Bro, this looks serious. They went to the dean."

Danish glares at them, his jaw tightening. "There's nothing like that. Mind your own business, I'll handle this."

Pranav doesn't let up. "Oh come on, Danish, just admit it. Is she your new obsession?"

Ranveer chuckles. "Looks like our Danish has found a new thrill in punishing her."

Danish's eyes flash with irritation. "Shut up, Ranveer. Your jokes aren't that funny."

Surendra smirks. "Then why are you getting so worked up? We're just messing around."

Danish clenches his fists, trying to keep his temper in check. "I said, enough. Stop talking about her."

They reach their private lunchroom, but the teasing continues. Ranveer, now busy making out with two girls sitting on his lap, looks up and grins.

"Danish, what's up with you these days? You've been staring off into space for so long. Come, have some fun."

Danish rolls his eyes, trying to change the subject. "Ranveer, can you think about something else for once?"

Ranveer laughs. "What can I do, bro? The girls come to me on their own."

Pranav chuckles. "And saying no isn't exactly your thing, is it?"

Surendra shakes his head, a small smile playing on his lips despite himself. "You guys... you'll never change."

Ranveer speaks up again. "But seriously, Danish, what's going on? With Banhi? What's the plan?"

Danish's smile fades, replaced by a stern look. "I'm just seeing how long she can hold up."

Noticing the looks his friends are giving him, he adds, "I have no interest in her."

Pranav raises an eyebrow. "Oh really? Then why do you keep watching her? Admit it, you find her interesting."

Danish's temper flares. "Enough. That's it. Why don't you guys get it? I have better things to do."

Ranveer laughs again. "Danish, your anger is what gives away your secret."

Danish slams his fist on the table, startling everyone. "I said, enough!"

The room falls silent, the tension thick in the air. Danish takes a deep breath, trying to regain control. His friends exchange glances, realizing they've pushed him too far.