Chapter 7 - First day at college after marriage (2/2)
”Were you forced?” She asked concerned.
”Forced? God! No, Siya,” I answered immediately afraid she would assume something more badly about our marriage.
*smack* *smack* *smack* *smack*
Before I could step back, she started smacking me with her hands in-between mumbling some incoherent curses.
Other student stared our way, some laughing, some amused while some shook their heads knowing it was usual to expect such kind of behavior from Ms. Siya Raghav.
Somehow, I was able to hold Siya's hands, stopping her little painful assault on me. Dragging her away from the crowd, I pulled her into an empty classroom. Settling down on one of the benches at the backside, I narrated her everything.
It took a while after shedding some tears, earning some smacks and glares, making of some promises but in the end, she came to an understanding of what I did and why I did, engulfing me in a bear hug.
*
After our conversation in the empty classroom, Siya had filled me on the college activities of last week when I was absent. She told me that Mr. Roy had inquired about me thrice and had asked for my immediate presence in his cabin as soon as possible.
Mr. Roy had joined our college two years ago after he completed his post graduation from our college itself. Given credit to his handsome personality, girls had dug about his personal life and thanks to them, everyone knew about him, his single status, and many other details. He was, loved professor because of his knowledge, behaviour, looks, and his age.
He always behaved in a courteous way, not giving any heeds to loving stares, flirting advances thrown in his way. He very respectfully kept everything related to studies only and that earned him my respect.
”May I come in, Sir?” I knocked on Mr. Roy's cabin door that was already open, wondering about the reason behind calling me.
”Innaya, oh yes come inside.” Mr. Roy rose from his chair once he saw me.
”Sir, Siya said you-
”Where were you? You know how worried-” he interrupted me before I could complete my sentence. I could see the concern in his eyes.
He is worried about me. Nope. Why would he be? He must be talking about Siya.
”Yes Sir, Siya already took my class for worrying her,” I answered smilingly remembering our earlier encounter.
”Umm... Sir, you called me for-” I inquired again.
”Oh... hmm... Yes,” he fumbled, as if forgot the reason.
He searched for something on his table, turning away from me. I was unable to figure out his strange behaviour. He appeared lost.
”There is the international conference on digital marketing held in Mumbai next month; my paper has been selected for it. I was wondering if you could assist me. I mean it would be a good experience for you and it will help you in your future. Only if you are willing,” he explained handing me some papers.
Why me? I wanted to ask that question so desperately yet I refrained myself. 'Maybe he is just being generous' my mind suggested, but the way he rubbed his palms together or the way his forehead wrinkled I was confused about what to make out of his behaviour.
For the conference, he repeatedly inquired about me. That is strange. I shook my head shrugging those thoughts while taking papers from you.
”If you don't mind, can I tell you tomorrow?” I asked making sure to avoid his hopeful eyes.
”No problem, I will be waiting.” He smiled.
”Thank you, Sir!” I left after nodding in his direction, too caught up with thoughts of this meeting that I did not return the smile and wait for anything.
*