As the days went by,
Rohan kept observing Rudra and Radika. They always came together and left together. He wondered to himself, what is their relationship? But he didn't question her directly. everything was going smoothly until an announcement came in college.
"The placements will be opening soon, so prepare well. And the exam results will also be released shortly."
The whole campus filled with chatter. Some were excited, some worried. Radika sat quietly, her heart beating fast. Results and placements… both at the same time.
At dinner, Radika barely touched her food, her mind wandering elsewhere.
Later in the room, Rudra asked, his voice steady but concerned,
"What's wrong radika? These days you seem worried."
Radika lowered her eyes. "It's today's announcement… about placements and results."
"So you're worried about results?" he asked gently.
She quickly shook her head. "No, sir. I know I'll pass the exams. I'm worried about placements. I'm not ready yet… it's all happening so fast."
Rudra gave a small smile, his tone calm and reassuring. "Don't worry. You have time to prepare and I'll help you. Just Trust Yourself.
The next day in college,
The whole atmosphere had changed. Everyone was talking about placements and families.
In the canteen, all the friends sat together and talked.
"My parents are expecting me to get a job soon," Sara said.
Hima nodded, "Yeah, my parents are also telling me to settle fast."
Rohan said, "Mine too."
Radika sat quietly, just listening to them.
Then Rohan turned to her, his face a little curious. "What about your parents, Radika? What are they saying?"
Radika felt nervous and hesitated. After a pause, she said softly, "They just told me to try my best."
Rohan leaned forward and asked, "What if you girls have to leave the city for a job? Would you go?"
Sara smiled. "Of course. If I get a good job, I'll go anywhere."Hima nodded. "Yeah, me too."
Then all three turned to Radhika, waiting for her answer.She hesitated for a second and said softly, "I don't know… I'll just go with the flow."
Rohan didn't stop there. He looked at the girls again but his eyes were fixed only on Radika."Are your parents okay with sending you far away?" he asked.
That question hit Radika deep. She froze for a second, unsure what to say.Sara frowned. "I don't know about that, but it's my life, so I'll decide. But why are you asking all these strange questions, Rohan?"
He smiled faintly. "Just curious," he said casually.But his eyes stayed on Radika, watching her every expression.
Radika tried to act normal, but something about his tone, his gaze—it all felt wrong.
That night,
At home,
She lay on her bed staring at the ceiling. Her mind replayed every word Rohan had said.He asked about the pub that day… and now these questions. Does he know something?
She turned on her side and called out softly, "Sir, are you asleep?"
Rudra's calm voice came from the sofa. "Not yet. Is there something you want to say?"
Radika opened her mouth but closed it again. "Nothing, sir… good night," she said quietly.
Rudra looked toward her direction but didn't ask further.
Radika sighed to herself. No more overthinking. I'll tell him after the placement exams. For now, I need to focus.She whispered to herself, "No distractions, Radika," and finally closed her eyes, trying to sleep.
NEXT DAY........
TO BE CONTINUED.......................