𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒐𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒆

PART-16

Ira's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by the girl's extrovert personality. She offered a polite smile, feeling a hint of awkwardness. "It means tranquility," she replied softly, her gaze drifting downward. "It's associated with the earth."

The girl's face lit up. "Wow, impressive! I'm Navya," she exclaimed enthusiastically. "It means beautiful and youthful, and it's connected to Goddess Durga!" Her hands danced in the air, echoing her vibrant energy.

Ira nodded, still struggling to keep pace with Navya's infectious dynamism.

Navya's voice pierced through the air with enthusiasm. "You're so calm and composed, Ira! I really like your nature!"

Ira's cheeks flushed, and she began rubbing the sole of her sandals against the ground.

Navya's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Heading home?"

Ira's gaze uplifted for a second to meet hers, and she ceased rubbing her shoe. Her forehead creased in a faint frown. "I... guess so," she whispered.

For an instant, Navya's smile wavered, her eyes flashing with uncertainty. But she swiftly regained her composure, her radiant grin snapping back into place. "You're really quiet, Ira. Am I making you uncomfortable?"

Ira began to protest politely. "Ah, no, no. It's—"

But Navya cut in a swift and effortless manner. "—okay, I understand."

Ira's unspoken words hung in the air, and her eyes narrowed slightly—a flicker of irritation stirring within her.

Navya's voice picked up a more higher intensity. "I know, I talk too much. That's why my father call me radio, hahaha!" Her laugh hinted at self-awareness, and Ira's lips curved into a polite, if slightly forced, smile.

With measured tone, Ira clarified herself. "No, no, it's not like that." The ensuing silence was brief but awkward.

Navya's tone turned light. "Hey, want to walk with me?"

Ira nodded curtly, falling into step beside Navya.

As they walked, Navya's words spilled out in a ceaseless torrent, her enthusiasm radiating like a warm glow. Ira's nods became mechanical while eyes drifted elsewhere in a mask of polite interest.

"...and then, I told him, 'You can't seriously expect me to finish that project in two days!' I mean, come on!" Navya exclaimed, moving her hands in air.

Ira's response was cut, her tone flat. "Yeah."

Navya didn't seem to notice Ira's detachment, her words flowing unchecked. "I know, right? It's basic common sense. But hey, at least I managed to get an extension."

Ira's gaze drifted away, her eyes scanning the surrounding buildings as her mind disengaged from the conversation. "Uh-huh."

Navya paused, expecting a reaction, but Ira's silence prompted her to fill the void, her words spilling out in a continuous stream.

"I'm thinking of celebrating with my friends this weekend. Want to join?" Navya asked, eyes sparkling with hope.

Ira hesitated before speaking, "Maybe."