Alfaaz

Chapter 2 : Justajoo

"Shraavann! Wait up bud!" Yelled Eric in his thick British accent. Eric was Shravan's batch-mate, very proud of his Scottish-Irish lineage. He attributed his charm and good looks to it. A bit of a show off, but a really good person. He had hit off with Shravan almost instantly. They both loved basket ball, were both pretty good at it. They were straight A's students and they both were die-hard Harry Potter fans. It was surprising being in the same school, that's not where they met. They bumped into each other at a Harry Potter Quiz, and their results were tied. In the weeks that followed they become very good friends.

"Hey Eric, sorry I didn't notice you." Apologized Shravan softly.

"Having those thick glasses you still didn't notice me!" Eric rolled his eyes.

"Yes I was thinking about the Calculus theorem that Professor Willoby taught." Said he adjusting his specs.

"Blimey! You guys started with Calculus? Miss Peggy hasn't gotten there yet. I dread it!" Shuddered Eric.

"It's challenging but not dreadful. Anyway why were you looking for me?" Asked he. 

"Oh yes! We are headed out for ice-cream, tag along.." he requested.

Shravan thought for a moment and replied, "By when would we be back?"

"In an hour, listen no excuses this time mate! You never accompany us other than basket-ball practice! It's just an hour! Please..." Said Eric, voice childish and eyes expectant.

"Umm okay... if it's just an hour I think I can come along."

"No way! You agreed! This day will go down in history my man!" Eric exaggerated. 

"Ever so dramatic!" Quipped Shravan.

~~ ~~ ~~ ~~

While Shravan was busy with his studies and getting acquainted to newer people Suman was becoming what Shravan used to be. She started paying attention in class, got her grades up, barely spoke to anyone, barely had friends. A few of her classmates could be considered as friendly but she didn't label anyone as her friend. That was now reserved only for Shravan. Pushkar, Shravan's cousin, was a constant support but when he was with his gang she'd sit in the library and read. Gone were the days where a mere mention of her name with the library would harm her image.

She thought of him often, she typed out mails but then let them sit in her drafts. She also almost sent him requests on Orkut a few times but discarded the idea thinking he wouldn't except it and she wouldn't be able to handle his rejection. She heard about him from time to time, Nanu and Pushkar being her sources. She knew he was doing better. Though he still missed home, he was getting used to life in London. He had a few friends and was gaining popularity because of his intelligence and selfless nature. How she resented her loss. How she missed him.

"Aye Sumo! Kya kar rahi ho tum aaise akele?" Asked Pushkar.