Opposites Attract

Chapter-2

"Why didn't you come for classes?"  Vito asks for the hundredth time now

"I told you I had some work." I replied making sure she get the irritation in my voice.

"oh, okay" she said, a little hurt.

I'm sorry.

Not knowing what to do or where to go, I had come to the canteen resolving to leave before lunch break but I had fallen asleep there until Vito woke me up leading to the present situation.

"Sleeping in the canteen was work?" someone asked from behind. I know that voice.

Smile, you're fine.

"I got tired after the work." I replied,  moving closer to Vito making space for Tiren  to sit.  How did he even know about me sleeping here? I look at  Atono who was smiling with folded hands.

"Namaste to you too" I said mimicking her.

College used to be so much more. The five of us always did everything together.  Vito, Rachel, Tiren, Khumtsa and me. Who knew things would change just before graduation? Or is it just me? They seem fine. Unaffected.

Don't get too deep. You're in a public place.

"Miss me?"

All of us turned to see who spoke. Seems like a boy but with a man-beard. What's with the military haircut?  Before I could ask,  Tiren stands and gives him a side hug. After that, both Vito and Rachel breaks into smiles and grins and invites him to our seat.

Our seat.

"Why is she so blank?" he asks pointing at me.

"I think she still hasn't recognized you." said Vito .

"What? Still?" and he looks at me and says, "Yo!"

Yo. Who says that?

"Still? Alright then...  Moonlight?"

Moonlight... Moonlight? MOONLIGHT!

"YOU!" I almost screamed.

"Aaaannd she's back" he said and they laughed together which I joined a little later.

Now we're complete.

"Where were you? You missed classes for two months" asked Rachel.

"And your phone was switched off the whole time" joined Vito

"Teach me how to do that" I added.
They stared at me. Vito and Khumtsa looked like they would kill me before I go ghost on them but it was the look from Tiren and Rachel that made me stand and leave. They looked with knowing eyes. Both with the same emotions—apologetic.  I can't believe I'm holding on to this friendship.

"I think I'll head home" I stood up and tried to sound as casual and cheerful as possible.

"But you didn't attend any class today" Vito protested.

"And I just got here" joined Khumtsa .

"Yeah, stay. Classes will also end this week." came Rachel's reply.

I only smiled and looked at Tiren who was smiling back at me.

That smile.

"I'll come tomorrow and we'll have fun." I said and before anyone of them could say anything, I headed for the door.

"What's with her?" asked Khumtsa.

"Don't know." replied Vito .

I smiled and made my way to the library.