After Life - Discovering the Depth of Darkness

vivid dream?

A kid asked, "Do you believe in God?" Actually, at that moment, I didn't, otherwise, I would not be standing here, failing my 7th interview this week. In order to clear my mind, I came to this beach, and there this kid was observing me, waiting for my response to his question. "Yes," I lied; I couldn't teach kids negative things.

"How does the god manage the world alone?" Ahhh! Another question, and where did his parents go? I really wasn't in the mood to answer his crazy questions. First of all, I hate kids. "Actually, there are many gods who manage this world, but there are three main gods, and the remaining gods help them." The kid seemed amused and asked, "Really? What do these three gods do?"

I regretted coming here as I reluctantly responded, "Brahma creates things, Vishnu protects, and Shiva destroys things." That's what my parents told me.Oh! I didn't know how to face them. I knew they were disappointed because of my last interview failure, but they didn't show it on their faces. Today, however, I knew they would.

A strange lady was coming towards me. "Chandru, I told you to stay there. What are you doing here?" Ah, the kid's mother. She held her son's hand and walked in the opposite direction. Finally, the kid was gone. I don't know why, but I always wonder why I don't like children. This topic is not currently on the most important list of things to discuss.

As my watch showed 12:45 p.m., I still hadn't found a way to face my parents. The impending confrontation weighed heavily on my mind.

I called Rani and asked, "Hello, are you free now?"

She answered, "Yes, what happened? You don't sound good."

"It happened again. I don't want to go home. Can you have lunch with me?" I asked Rani, hoping for some company and support.

"Okay, but this time I'll get 65 biryanis. I'll buy them and meet you at the park," Rani agreed, suggesting a plan to lift my spirits with a delicious meal.

"Okay, I'll be there. Bye, and don't forget the coke," I replied before ending the call.

She has been my best friend since higher education. I've always wondered how we became so close. There's a special wavelength between us that just clicks. Our signature drink is coke, since we can't consume real alcohol. We pretend it's beer and sip on coke while sharing our days and discussing worldly topics. It's our unique way of bonding.

After ending the call, I started walking and realized how quickly time had passed. Eventually, I arrived at the spot Rani had mentioned. The weather was pleasant, with birds chirping, crows cawing, and squirrels darting around, freezing like statues before resuming their speedy antics. They were truly agile creatures. I suspected there was an Indian ringneck perched on a branch above me, but the bright sun obstructed my view. The park used to be more densely populated with trees, but now, during noon time, several benches were unoccupied. I decided that the bench to my right, where the tree's shadow fell perfectly, would be an ideal spot.

I jolted as someone slapped my butt. It was Rani, who stood about 10 centimeters taller than me. She was wearing a brown kurti that accentuated her golden brown skin tone. I frowned and said, "Jeez, did you buy the coke? You ended the call without replying."

Rani chuckled and said, "Will I ever forget that? Come, sit down, and tell me if you saw any handsome guys while I indulge in my 65 biryanis." She playfully teased me.

I sighed and replied, "No, I haven't seen any. Am I that unlucky? Why can't I find a better job? I thought things would be easier after graduating." I couldn't help but express my frustration and disappointment.

She commented, "You look good, and your dress is absolutely formal. The blazer and jeans combination is perfect. What about the test? Is it tough?"

I couldn't help but feel a hint of pride in my outfit. After all, I always had a unique taste in clothes. I wasn't particularly feminine when it came to clothing, but I was trying to incorporate more of it. On the other hand, Rani always wore Chudis or kurtis, embracing her feminine style. My personal preference leaned more towards jeans, cargo pants, and tees, along with shirts and jackets. It was just my way of dressing.