Falling For The Nerd

02| Nerd and Nostalgia

•NERD AND NOSTALGIA•

"Life is all about unexpected surprises and people; they come into your life when you least expect it and leave, as if they never intended to be a part of it, leaving you broken."

•☆•☆•☆•

As the sun rose, casting its golden light over the dark streets of Mumbai, it illuminated a blissfully silent area nestled within the haphazardly noisy city. Here lies a peaceful and secluded society, akin to two contrasting shores—where life is simple, easy, and serene, free from the pollution of bustling traffic and jarring sounds.

The houses stand in harmonious symmetry, each reflecting a beautiful vintage style. Unlike the monotonous high-rises that dominate the skyline, these quaint homes exude character and charm, embodying sophistication and a sense of history.

This place feels like another world entirely, where life is grounded in simplicity, health, and happiness—far removed from the extravagant dinners, vibrant parties, and clubbing lifestyles that thrive on the other side of this economically vibrant city.

Amidst the aesthetically pleasing vintage homes, lane winds through lush greenery, where small lawns envelop each house. The joyful sounds of families awakening to greet the rising sun fill the air, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to embrace the beauty of everyday life.

A man in his early twenties jogged down the lane, clad in a fitted tracksuit, his earbuds in place as he immersed himself in the rhythm of his music, savoring the fresh air.

As he moved along the path, Kunj, lost in his own world, waved to the children passing by on their way to school. Their laughter filled the air as they joyfully waved back, their smiles brightening the morning.

Suddenly, another boy, roughly the same age, came sprinting down the lane, desperately trying to keep up with Kunj. He was panting heavily, breathless from the effort.

“Areh yaar, meray liye toh ruk, Kunj!” he shouted, struggling to catch his breath.

Kunj turned around and chuckled, glancing back at his friend. His chocolaty brown eyes shimmered with flecks of golden light, as if they were performing a delicate ballet beneath the surface. Behind his glasses, his strong, defined features conveyed a sense of determination and confidence, the contours of his face molded by both genetics and an active lifestyle.

Finally, the other boy caught up, leaning against a tree for support. “Kya bhai, tujhe kya marathon daudni hai ya mujhe maarne ka pakka irada kar rakha hai tune?” he gasped, a mix of frustration and amusement in his voice.

Kunj shot him a sarcastic glare, raising an eyebrow. The boy responded with a sheepish smile, still panting as he tried to regain his breath.

“Come on, man! You know I can’t keep up with you!” he exclaimed, wiping the sweat from his brow.

Kunj grinned, his laughter echoing through the serene morning air. “If you trained a little harder, you might stand a chance,” he teased, his tone playful yet encouraging.

With that, Kunj resumed his jog, the rhythmic beat of his music guiding him forward. The boy, now catching his breath, jogged alongside him, the two friends enjoying the simple pleasure of movement and camaraderie against the backdrop of nature's beauty. As they ran, the sun continued to rise, casting a warm glow on their path, illuminating the vibrant greens and colorful blossoms that lined the lane, creating a perfect morning for friendship and fitness.

“Hehe, Avi bhaiya, aap itni jaldi thak gaye!” giggled a little boy as he passed by on his way to the school van, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he looked at Avi's flustered state.