Quatervois

Part 11

(Dhruv's POV)

It's been four days since Tara's diagnosis with Arrhythmia. These past few days have been an emotional rollercoaster for Mira, but I'm relieved that Noah is there to support her.

As for me, I'm glad that Tara's condition is stable now. She has welcomed Noah and me into her circle of friends, and surprisingly, it's been going well. Once you get to know her, you realize just how cool she is.

Life in South Korea is a whole different ballgame compared to India. It's been two months since I arrived here, and honestly, I don't think I would have survived without Noah's help. He's been a true lifesaver.

Unlocking the door to my room, I returned from the hospital after visiting Tara. Today, I went alone since Noah and Mira ended up in detention. Those two lovebirds can't seem to resist texting each other even during class.

I shook my head with a chuckle at their antics, finding their young love both amusing and endearing. "They're cute," I thought to myself, placing my bag down and heading to the bathroom to freshen up.

I also spoke to the principal today on Mira's behalf. It felt like the right thing to do since she's a friend, and I didn't mind stepping in for her. The principal assured me they would safeguard Tara's scholarship, but extra classes were off the table.

That meant Tara would need private tutoring. Offering to help her somehow seemed like the right move in the moment.

Surprisingly, she accepted my offer, and something inside me felt a strange sense of relief. Maybe it's because I didn't want her to worry about finding a tutor.

She had enough on her plate as it is, and I was glad I could alleviate some of her stress.

I wiped my face with a towel and returned to my room before making my way to the kitchen with my empty water bottle in hand. Aunt was already there, bustling around as usual.

"Anneyonghaseyo Ajhumma," I greeted her politely, receiving a warm smile in return.

"Where's Noah?" she asked.

"He's staying back at school to clear some doubts and might head to the hospital from there," I replied smoothly. No need to mention his detention – it's better to keep the peace.

"Ah, I see. How's your friend? Tara, was it?" Aunt inquired, concern evident in her eyes.

"Tara. She's doing better now, thankfully," I answered as I filled my water bottle.

Aunt nodded in approval. "That's a relief. Take some kimchi for her when you visit her tomorrow."

"Of course, I will. Goodnight, Ajhumma," I bid her farewell and returned to my room, collapsing onto the bed. Thoughts of the past few days swirled in my mind – my journey to Korea, the newfound friendships, Tara's sudden health scare, and our impromptu tutoring arrangement.

Flashback

Tara was engrossed in the notes I had given her, her brow furrowing slightly as something on my phone buzzed. It was a message from my mom, and at first, I was thrilled to hear from her after nearly two weeks of silence. However, my smile quickly faded as I read her message.

Mom had apologized for the lack of communication and inquired about my well-being. Her words stung a bit as she mentioned their busy schedule, leaving me feeling neglected once again. I responded with a simple "It's okay," not wanting to cause any more trouble.

As I looked up from my phone, I noticed Tara's gaze on me, curiosity evident in her eyes. I couldn't help but wonder what she was thinking as she observed me.

Flashback ends

A small smile crept onto my face as I recalled the moment. It was odd how her observation had affected me – like she saw beyond my exterior. Shaking off my thoughts, I grabbed my headphones and played some familiar Hindi songs, seeking comfort in the melodies. Today, I was missing Bollywood, and Darshan Raval's voice felt like a warm embrace.

The song "Saari Ki Saari" played on repeat as I closed my eyes, allowing the music to transport me to a different world. A world where worries and uncertainties faded away, replaced by the soothing sounds and emotions of the music. Before I knew it, sleep overtook me, and I drifted into a peaceful slumber.

In that quiet moment, amidst the backdrop of music and dreams, I found solace – a respite from the challenges of reality and a chance to rejuvenate for whatever tomorrow may bring.