US IN THE U.S

2. THE BOUNDARIES

Yodha Viswanath:

This is unsettling to the core. Austin, a senior I once regarded as a close friend, has become uncomfortably familiar. When we were initially grouped for a project, I appreciated how, despite being an extrovert, he made it easy for me, a selective introvert, to connect. It felt like I had finally forged a meaningful friendship.

Through him, I was introduced to a vibrant circle of friends from diverse cultural backgrounds. That’s how I met Sakshi, Naomi, Aadil, and Luke. While I've met several of Austin’s acquaintances, these four stood out.

They, too, seemed to resonate with me instantly. Yet, I've been cautious not to place blind trust in anyone. I maintain my boundaries, not letting anyone too close.

Sakshi and Naomi, with their outgoing natures, contrast with Aadil and Luke, who, like me, are more reserved.

Consequently, I find it easier to blend in with the guys. However, there are times when it’s challenging to participate in the group’s dynamic conversations.

Austin, though, is becoming overly tactile. At first, I dismissed it as a product of his upbringing, but now, it’s making me deeply uncomfortable.

I’ve been mustering the courage to address the issue without creating unnecessary drama.

We've recently formed a voluntary group for another project, necessitating a place to meet. Initially, we considered the library, but since we couldn't discuss freely, we opted for a more convenient location—my flat.

Yes, as expected, my apartment was chosen due to its proximity to everyone’s places. Yet, it’s not just my space. I share it with Agastya, who despises being disturbed.

My anxiety is palpable as I host my friends in my room. I’ve already warned them about Agastya’s temperament, but while the girls seem intrigued, the guys are indifferent.

I, however, am the only one truly on edge. I’ve been anxiously waiting for Agastya’s inevitable appearance, counting the seconds.

When I finally hear the door click, I brace myself. There's no need to look up; I know Agastya is home.

I anticipated him barging into the room, unleashing his anger at the intrusion. After all, he glares at me for even the slightest noise during his late-night work sessions in the living room.

But to my utter surprise, that moment never arrives. Luke's groggy voice interrupts my thoughts as he requests water, and it dawns on me that in my nervous state, I’ve forgotten to offer them any refreshments. Apologizing, I quickly make my way to the kitchen.

I spot Agastya, seated on the living room couch, working on his laptop with his headphones on.

To my relief, he seems completely immersed in his work, respecting the boundaries of the situation. I exhale, grateful for his understanding.

After preparing some lemonade, I offer drinks to my friends. On my way back to Agastya, I decide to extend an olive branch in the form of a drink, as a token of appreciation for his patience.

Despite knowing that he never accepts anything I make—an experience I had only once when he rejected a coffee I offered—this time I decide to give it one last try.

Before I can approach him, Sakshi snatches the glass from my hand with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I’ll give it to him," she says, confidently fixing her hair and lipstick in the mirror. She adds, "Watch how I’ll make him mine."

I stifle an eye-roll. Sakshi clearly harbors a crush on him. As I and the others quietly observe from behind the wall, Sakshi approaches Agastya, standing there expectantly, waiting for him to acknowledge her presence. Yet, true to form, he remains indifferent.