Notes of Love

tender beginnings

The next morning, the sun streamed through Manik's window, warming his room and nudging him awake. He stretched lazily, the bracelet still resting on his wrist, a reminder of the night before. A rush of excitement coursed through him as he thought about meeting Nandini in the music room.

After a quick breakfast, he made his way to school, anticipation bubbling within him. As he approached the music room, he could already hear the soft, melodious strains of a veena filtering through the door. His heart raced; it was Nandini, practicing. He knocked lightly before entering.

Nandini looked up, her expression shifting from concentration to a warm smile. "You made it!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

"I wouldn't miss it," he replied, trying to sound casual but failing to hide his excitement. "How's the practice going?"

"Better than expected," she said, her pride evident. "I'm working on a new piece for Musicana, and I think it's coming together."

"That's awesome! Can I hear it?" he asked, genuinely curious.

"Sure!" She gestured for him to sit down beside her as she readjusted the strings on her veena. As her fingers glided over the strings, a beautiful, haunting melody filled the room. Manik watched in awe, captivated not only by her skill but by the way her passion radiated as she played.

When she finished, he was silent for a moment, absorbing the music. "That was incredible, Nandini! You have such a gift," he said, his admiration palpable.

"Thanks! But I hope I am able to perform that day," she admitted, biting her lip.

"Just remember what we talked about," he encouraged. "Start with smaller audiences. You've got this."

"I know, but..." she trailed off, glancing away. "What if I freeze?"

"Then we'll laugh it off together," he reassured her, nudging her playfully. "Focus on the music and let everything else fade away. You're not alone in this."

As they practiced, the door swung open, and a few classmates wandered in, chatting and laughing. When they saw Manik and Nandini together, their chatter quickly faded into surprised murmurs.

"Wait, is that Manik with Nandini?" one girl whispered, eyes wide.

Another chimed in, "How did this behenji get Manik as a friend?"

Nandini's cheeks flushed, a mix of embarrassment and hurt crossing her face. Manik felt a rush of anger as he heard the comments, his protective instincts kicking in. "You all need to back off," he snapped, stepping forward. "Nandini is talented and deserves respect."

"But come on, Manik! You're—" a boy started, but Manik cut him off.

"I don't care what you think!" he said fiercely. "Nandini is my friend, and that's all that matters."

"It's okay, Manik," Nandini said softly, placing a hand on his arm. "They're just being rude. I can handle it."

"Why do you let them say that?" Manik asked, his voice lower, concerned.

"Because it's easier than fighting back," she admitted, her eyes downcast. "I don't want to make a scene."

"Not standing up for yourself doesn't make it easier," he replied gently. "You have every right to be proud of who you are and who you choose to be friends with."

Nandini looked up at him, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you for defending me. It means a lot." Manik softened at her words, feeling the weight of the moment.

As the classmates continued to whisper among themselves, some jealousy evident in their glances, Nandini and Manik focused on each other, the bond between them growing stronger despite the outside noise.