"What can I say? I missed the rain. Plus, you came to rescue me, so it's all good."
Dev mocked a scowl. "You're unbelievable. Next time, bring an umbrella."
She stuck out her tongue. "But then you wouldn't have a reason to come save me."
He rolled h...
A young woman driven by curiosity and a deep desire to understand the world of microbiology. Raised in a traditional Bengali household, she balanced her family's cultural values with her dreams of breaking new ground in scientific research. From an early age, she showed a remarkable thirst for knowledge, spending more time with books and scientific journals than with the usual childhood games. Her journey into microbiology began when a childhood illness left her bedridden for weeks. Determined to understand the microscopic invaders that had caused her so much misery, Srinika found her calling.
As she pursued her education, Srinika's passion for viral diseases intensified. She spent long hours in the lab, studying the molecular structures of viruses, trying to unlock their secrets. Her dedication to her research was unmatched, but her personal life was far from simple. Relationships were a source of both joy and heartbreak for her. Even as she excelled academically, love often left her feeling vulnerable and lost.
It was during one of these emotional lows that she met Dev, a senior student studying business at her college. Their first meeting was nothing special, just a casual encounter in the hallways. But when Srinika approached Dev for help with her English, what started as a simple favor grew into a deep and meaningful friendship. They shared late-night study sessions and long conversations, becoming each other's confidants. Dev supported Srinika through the ups and downs of her personal and academic life, always there when she needed him. Yet, Srinika couldn't shake the pain of past relationships.~
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The heavy patter of raindrops echoed through the night as Srinika emerged from the lab, her steps faltering slightly as she braced herself against the sudden onslaught. Each droplet felt like a miniature percussion against her skin, the rhythm of the storm enveloping her in its relentless cadence. It was already 8 in the evening, and the darkness of the night seemed to blend seamlessly with the stormy clouds overhead, casting a somber veil over the world. She pulled out her phone and tapped Dev's contact, muttering under her breath as it rang.
After a few rings, a groggy voice answered, "Sri... it's late. What's up?"
"Dev," she huffed, trying to shield her phone from the rain. "I'm stuck here, soaked, and... it's Aakash again."
There was a pause, followed by an audible groan. "Oh, come on. Seriously? That guy? Again?"
"I know, I know," she said, her voice tired and frustrated. "But it happened. He rejected me—again—and moved on. It's just... I feel like an idiot for thinking he'd change."
"You're not an idiot," Dev replied, more awake now, but clearly annoyed. "He's a jerk. How many times do you need to go through this to get it? You deserve way better than him."
Srinika sighed, leaning against the wall, the rain still drenching her. "I get that in theory. But it's just... I thought maybe this time would be different."
Dev's tone softened a bit. "Look, Sri, I get it. But that guy? He's never going to be what you want him to be. You can't keep giving him space in your head."
She didn't respond immediately. The rain was pouring harder, but Dev's words hit home. "Yeah, you're right," she mumbled. "I just... I don't know why it's so hard to let it go."
"I know why," Dev replied gently. "You care too much. You always do. But listen, it's not your fault. He's just not the guy for you."
There was a pause, and then she said quietly, "Thanks, Dev."
"Always, Sri. You know I've got your back," he said. Then, with a playful edge in his voice, he added, "Now, why do I feel like you're about to ask me for something? Or are you going to hang up and let me continue my beauty sleep?"
Srinika smiled despite everything. "Okay, so... I'm stuck at the lab, and it's pouring. Could you come pick me up?"
"In this rain? You're kidding, right?" Dev groaned dramatically, but she could hear the smile creeping into his voice.
"Pleaseee?" she begged, dragging out the word as cutely as possible. "I didn't bring an umbrella, and I'm soaked. Plus, I need you to tell me more about what a jerk Aakash is while you drive me home because I seriously need someone to bitch-about with."
Dev laughed. "You're lucky you are my bestfriend. Fine. I'll be there in 20. But you owe me for this."
"Deal," she said, feeling a rush of warmth despite the rain. "Thanks, Dev. You're the best."
"Yeah, yeah," he teased. "Just stay put and don't get any wetter."
Srinika hung up, a small smile playing on her lips. No matter how messy her life got, she could always count on Dev. That thought made the storm feel a little less overwhelming.
