Riya and Vivan were sitting in the principal's office
The principal looked at both of them, clearly tensed. On one hand was a visiting professor from a highly influential family ; on the other was a student who was among the university's top performers.
The principal took a deep breath. "Look, this is just a misunderstanding. You both are intelligent and mature, so let's not turn a small issue into a big controversy."
Riya (crossing her arms): "Sir, I don't want any controversy. I just want to understand-does student respect not matter?"
Vivan (calm but cold): "And I just want to understand-how will learning happen if there is no discipline?"
The principal grew even more anxious.
Controlling both of them was beyond him.
Just then, the door to the office opened.
A presence entered-authoritative and graceful.
Dean-Ashima Oberoi.
All staff and students deeply respected her because she was a strong, fair, and no-nonsense leader.
She looked directly at the principal. "I heard that some students and professors are breaking the rules of discipline?"
The principal quickly explained the situation.
Ashima glanced at both of them.
Then, in a calm but firm tone, she said to the principal, "Call her parents."
Riya (shocked): "Wait, what?! Why call my parents over just a disagreement?"
Ashima (without looking at her): "A university is not a school, but that doesn't mean those who break discipline will be let off without consequences."
Riya opened her mouth to protest, but Vivan shot her a glance that clearly said- Stay quiet, or this will escalate even further.
Within moments, green military cars entered through the university's main gate.
Students and staff were completely shocked.
"Military? Is some VIP visiting?"
"Looks like a Minister or an Army Officer is here!"
At that moment, the Dean herself stepped outside the building. The level of security was so high that she had to officially greet them.
A tall, authoritative figure stepped out of the car, clad in a sharp military uniform. Several other high-ranking officers accompanied him.
Ashima respectfully joined her hands.
"Welcome, Sir. The university welcomes you."
May I know the reason for your visit?"
A moment of silence.
Then, a deep yet calm voice responded, "I was called here personally."
The Dean grew even more alert. "You were? May I ask who called you?"
The military officer took a step forward.
And then, his next words shocked everyone-
"I am Riya's father."
DEAD SILENCE.
The university's principal, the Dean, and the staff stood frozen in disbelief.
The military officer... was Riya's father?!
The principal's mouth hung open. "I-I had no idea..."
Ashima Oberoi, however, remained completely composed. She gave a small nod.
"Please, come inside."
Riya's father entered the room alongside the Principal and the Dean.
Riya's eyes widened in shock and tension.
"PAPA?!
Vivan maintained his silent expression, but his seriousness deepened.
Riya's father (in a calm but commanding tone): "Sit down."
Riya immediately sat up straight.
The Principal carefully explained that the incident was merely a disagreement.
Riya's father gave a sharp glance. "A minor issue should not be used as an excuse to break discipline. If there is a misunderstanding between a student and a professor, it should be resolved professionally."
Riya began to protest slightly. "Papa, I didn't-"
"Enough." His tone turned slightly firmer. "When it comes to discipline, there is no place for ego or personal grudges. You are a student. Your job is to gain knowledge, not to clash with your professor."
Riya was about to argue further, but then she saw the strict warning in his eyes.
She closed her mouth lightly.
The Dean remained silent but was satisfied that the matter was now under control.
Ashima looked directly at both of them. "Don't waste any more time. Both of you, attend your respective classes."
---
Riya's father was already home when she arrived in the evening.
As soon as she stepped inside, his serious voice called out-
"Riya, come to my room."
Riya started walking in but felt a slight nervousness.
He looked at her directly. "What happened at college today was wrong. If it had been any other student, they might have faced suspension. Just because you're intelligent doesn't mean you can act without discipline."
Riya tried to make her point. "But Papa, if a professor is being disrespectful, should we just stay silent?"
His tone remained calm but firm. "There's a difference between discipline and attitude. You may be right, but the way you handle it matters too."
Riya finally gave in. "I understand, Papa."
He gave a nod. "Good."
"Now, get ready quickly. We're going out for dinner."
Riya frowned in confusion. "Dinner? Where?"
---