The classroom was quiet except for the steady voice of the professor. James sat in his usual place, trying hard to stay focused. His eyes felt heavy, and the lack of proper sleep made every minute feel longer. Still, he kept looking at the board, forcing himself to listen.
The professor suddenly asked a question. James knew the answer. It was clear in his mind. But as always, he hesitated. His lips parted slightly, but no words came out.
Before he could gather courage, a voice answered confidently.
It was her.
James turned slightly. She sat a few rows ahead—calm, composed, and effortlessly confident. Her name, he soon heard, was Aadhya. She didn't just answer; she explained it clearly, as if she belonged there more than anyone else.
There was something different about her.
After the class ended, students gathered in groups, laughing and talking. Some discussed plans for the evening, others scrolled through their phones. James stepped out quietly, keeping to himself.
That's when he noticed her again.
Aadhya walked past, her presence simple yet striking. Her clothes were neat, her posture confident. Outside the college gate, a car was waiting for her. Someone had come to pick her up.
James looked down at his own worn shoes.
For a moment, he felt small.
Nearby, his friends were talking about going out—food, fun, maybe a movie. One of them called out to him.
"James, come with us!"
He paused. For a second, he wanted to say yes.
But reality answered for him.
"I… I have some work," he said quietly, avoiding their eyes.
They didn't insist much. They were used to it.
As he turned to leave, something small fell near him—a notebook slipping from someone's hand. He bent down quickly and picked it up.
It was Aadhya.
"Here," he said softly, handing it over.
She looked at him for a brief second. "Thank you," she replied with a small smile.
It was a simple moment. Just a few words.
But for James, it stayed.
He nodded slightly and walked away before saying anything more.
As he stepped out of the campus, his phone vibrated.
A delivery notification.
He looked back once. His friends were still laughing, making plans. Aadhya was getting into the car.
Then he looked at his phone again.
Without another thought, he walked toward his bike, picked up his delivery bag, and started his engine.
The evening had begun.
And so had his responsibilities.