TILL INFINITIES END

17. TIA

3 weeks to boards.

No. I can't do it, this is way too much disturbing.

I was trying my best to focus on the maths textbook in front of me, but Sam was making it nearly impossible. His voice was full of excitement, way too loud for someone to study beside him.

"No wayyy!! Then?" he practically shouted, his eyes wide with interest. he turned back completely, to face her as she talked to him.

I rolled my eyes. they were supposed to be revising four chapters of science as they formerly said, but of course, ten minutes in, and Sam had somehow managed to turn it into a gossip session about Soumyaa's love life. 

Typical Samarth Joshi—always sidetracked by a good story. 

I mean, I love seeing him happy, but right now, we really needed to be studying. 

He laughed again, pulling me out from the little bit focus I had in my studies. I couldn't help but look at him. Ugh, why did he have to be so adorable when he laughed? please god, never let anything affect that smile of his, okay?

As adorable as he looked, I had to keep my head straight. I pointed a finger at them, trying to get them to stop. "Shhh! you two, you were supposed to revise those four chapters of science, remember?"

They both looked at me with clueless expressions as if discussing Soumyaa's love life was the only reason they sat, and something like science textbook didn't even exist.

I sigh, "Please guys, talk slowly, and you, mister loudspeaker," I point at Sam "lower your volume, okay? I am getting distracted."

Sam glanced at me, then back at Soumyaa, shaking his head playfully, "There's something way more fun going on here, Tia. Seriously, stop prioritizing this stupid trigonometry over this sweet story! Come on, you HAVE  to hear this!"

I sighed and passed an exaggerated response as I plugged my ears with my fingers, wanting to tune them out. 

Sam burst out laughing. "Sorry, Soumyaa, my bestie's a nerd. But don't worry, I'm still listening!"

As much as I wanted to stay serious, I couldn't help but smile at his silliness. Sam could make anything fun, even when he was being a complete distraction. 

But that was part of why I liked him so much, wasn't it? that he could make the most simple things feel special.

Two hours later, the bell finally rang. School was over, and Sam and I walked to the parking lot together. He was still talking, floating from one topic to another, while I just walked beside him, adoring every gesture of his face as he walked. you know what? I could listen to him forever. like, FOREVER. 

"Did you hear? Rachit and Soumyaa are going to buy matching outfits for the farewell!" he said, as if it was the most groundbreaking news ever. "Isn't it cute?"

I couldn't help but laugh. "Matching outfits? Really?"

He nodded, "Yeah! And speaking of which, I remember, i also need to get my own outfit for the farewell. I have NOTHING. I need to get a good coat, shirt, tie." 

I just twitch my mouth. We're just three weeks away from boards and this guy- is thinking about the event coming after it.

"Hey, you wanna come with me and help me pick something out?"

My heart turns topsy-turvy. I could already picture it—Sam in a sharp suit with a bold colour, looking even more handsome than he already did. And I could see myself falling for him even more.

But I had to keep it cool.

"Sam, we have exams coming up before the farewell. don't you think maybe you should focus on that first?" I teased him.

But Sam was Sam. He laughed it off.

"Sure. We have this tiny exam first." he said

"Tiny? It's boards." I laugh.

"Yeah leave it, but...promise me, Tia. Once boards are over, you'll come with me. I need your fashion advice. I can't pick it alone!"

Shit, Sam in these outfits. shit shit shit.

"Alright. I promise—if you promise to not hear anymore gossips or stories about anyone's love life and actually study till our exam ends."

He nodded, pretending to be serious. "Deal. I'll study, and you help me with shopping...and studying."

"Good that you mentioned about studying." I say as I walk up to the school bus. 

"Anyway, see you tomorrow. bye!" he says as he goes to his vehicle.

I went in and sat beside Vyom, who was finishing off his fruits. I was calm on the outside, but inside, I was dancing. The thought of helping Sam pick out his farewell outfit, seeing him in formal clothes for the first time—it was all so exciting. i was not at all excited for the farewell but now....duh, I can't wait for it to come!