The Right Kind of Wrong

48. The IAS Exam

Savi woke up to the soft light of dawn filtering through her curtains. The day she had been preparing for was finally here—the IAS exams. Her heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety as she sat up in bed, the weight of the day pressing down on her shoulders.

She glanced at her phone, hoping for a message from Rajat, and her heart soared when she saw several notifications from him.

Text from Rajat: Good morning, cotton candy! Today is your day. Remember, you've worked hard for this!

She smiled, feeling a rush of warmth spread through her.

Text from Rajat: Just imagine us celebrating tonight. I can't wait to wrap my arms around you after you crush this exam. You've got this!

Savi quickly typed a response, her fingers flying over the screen. Thanks! I'm a little nervous, but your words help. Can't wait to see you afterward!

After showering and getting dressed, Savi went through her pre-exam ritual. She made herself a strong cup of coffee and played her favorite playlist, letting the upbeat songs drown out her nerves. As she sipped her coffee, she took a moment to focus, remembering Bappa, closing her eyes and imagining herself walking out of the exam hall with a sense of accomplishment.

Suddenly, her phone buzzed again.

Text from Rajat: Just remember, Savi: "You are stronger than your doubts."

His words resonated deep within her, solidifying her resolve. She could almost hear his voice, filled with warmth and encouragement, urging her to believe in herself.

"Okay, let's do this," she whispered to herself, grabbing her bag and heading out the door.

Upon arriving at the exam center, Savi felt the familiar pangs of anxiety creeping in again. The atmosphere was charged with the nervous energy of fellow candidates. She took a deep breath, trying to focus her thoughts.

She found her seat and settled in, clutching her pen tightly as the invigilator began distributing the papers. As the exam commenced, Savi felt her heart race—each tick of the clock echoing in her mind.

In the midst of the exam, whenever she felt overwhelmed, she recalled Rajat's texts. "You are stronger than your doubts." His words flowed through her, igniting her determination. She tackled each question with renewed energy, envisioning their celebration that awaited her.

As the last minutes of the exam ticked away, Savi felt a wave of relief wash over her. She had done her best, and that was all that mattered. After submitting her paper, she walked out of the exam hall, the weight of the world lifting from her shoulders.

Outside, the sun shone brightly, and her phone buzzed again. It was Rajat.

Text from Rajat: How did it go? I'm waiting to celebrate!

Savi grinned, her heart swelling with excitement. I think I did well! Can't wait to see you!

Text from Rajat: Meet me at our spot?

"Perfect," she murmured to herself, hurrying to the familiar park where they often spent time together.

When Savi arrived at the park, Rajat was already there, leaning casually against a tree, his smile lighting up the space around him. As soon as he spotted her, he rushed over, pulling her into a tight embrace.

"You did it!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with pride.

"I hope so! I really tried my best," she replied, pulling back to look into his eyes.