I was back from college. All I could think about was Meena and how I could find a new home for her. I need to figure it out within two days because on Monday, when I meet Meena at college, I want to give her the good news that I've sorted it out. Oh man, I can just imagine the happiness on her face, and this is how I'll be able to make a place in her heart. Oh man, I blushed a little bit. Such a naughty devil I was.
I rushed to my room, threw my bag on the bed, and pulled out my mobile. Then I realized, damn, I should have asked for her mobile number. I shook my head—how silly I am. But anyway, it's probably better that I don't have her number. I can tell her in person that I've found a new home for her; that will be much more exciting. I smirked.
My thoughts started racing as I planned for tomorrow. I'd need to borrow a bike from Dad to get around, so I made a plan in my mind. I'll tell them I'm going to Amit's house to study and then we're heading to the city center to buy some books, which is why I need the bike. Such a liar I was; love made me lie. Everything is fair in love, I nodded.
At the dinner table, I said, "Papa, I need the bike tomorrow."
"For what?" he asked.
"I'm going to study at Amit's house," I replied.
"Well, Amit's home isn't that far. Why do you need the bike?" he asked, chewing his food.
"Well, we're also going to the city center to buy some books," I said, chewing my food to avoid sounding like I was lying.
"Is that so?" he said, looking into my eyes. I met his gaze and gave a little smile.
"Okay, take it, but ride safely," he said, finishing his food.
"Sure, Papa, I'll take care of it," I replied.
"Why are you suddenly so concerned about studying?" Mom asked.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"I mean, I've never heard you be so serious about your studies," she said, laughing and looking at Papa.
"Oh damn, don't mess it up, Mom," I thought.
"I've decided to focus on my studies because it's an important academic year," I said.
"Oh, nice," she smiled, knowing I was hiding something. She knew me better than I knew myself. But she let it go and reminded me to come home on time and not to get into trouble.
"What's wrong with you? The boy wants to study, and you're scolding him. Let him have the bike," Papa said.
"Alright, alright. I'm just saying because you don't say anything," Mom replied to Papa.
"Oh, is that so? I don't say anything?" Papa said, starting to get argumentative.
"Stop, both of you. Please, I'm not taking the bike. Just don't start arguing and turn this into a fight," I said.
After a couple of minutes of silence, Mom spoke up. "Alright, take it. Just be careful." Papa went to his room, returned with the keys, and handed them to me.
"Alright, first plan was a success. Now I can explore the area, talk to different people, and find out who is renting out their space."
I set an alarm, which I rarely do—only on exam days. "Alright, time to sleep," I said to myself, closing my eyes. But all I could think about was her. Oh man, why can't I think of anything else but her? I shook my head with a smile on my lips. Slowly, the goddess of sleep took over, and I went into a deep slumber.
The alarm beeped loudly and continuously. I was startled awake—it was 6 o'clock. I threw off the blanket and sat up on the bed. I grabbed my mobile from the side table and dialed Amit.
