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Chapter 27 - Mine

External exams came and went, and before they knew it, the third year had arrived, bringing with it a sense of ease. Their studies now revolved around ENT, ophthalmology, and Community Medicine, topics that seemed to come naturally to them.

With an abundance of free time at their disposal, they eagerly engaged in various intercollege music and basketball events, immersing themselves in the thrill of competition.

Excursions to enchanting destinations like Coorg and Mysore became a regular occurrence during weekends, as the group sought both adventure and relaxation. The day scholars on the basketball team, their fellow teammates, played the gracious hosts of vibrant parties that eagerly attended together.

Surrounded by assumptions that Fiza and Alan were a couple, no one dared to approach them romantically. During intercollege events, some senior students or outsiders would occasionally muster the courage to ask Fiza out on a date, but
Alan seldom received such direct interest. Yet, everything changed one fateful day in the midst of their third year.

Fiza had left Alan at the library to prepare for an upcoming party they were to attend later in the day. Upon her return, she noticed one of their juniors from the hostel engaged in conversation with Alan. Initially, she thought nothing of it and took a seat across the table, withdrawing her phone.

However, her world shifted when she overheard the junior girl utter the words, "No strings attached." Though a surge of fury welled up within her, she managed to keep her composure and remain silent. Stealing a glimpse at Alan, she observed his elated expression. Seemingly engrossed in her own typing, Fiza concealed her true emotions.

Jyothi, the junior girl, had been approaching him and striking up conversations whenever she found him alone. They had shared laughs, and Alan had offered her advice on navigating through their second year. However, today was the first time Jyothi revealed any romantic inclinations.

He observed Jyothi carefully, taking note of her endearing appearance and vibrant personality. Conversations flowed effortlessly between them, fostering a sense of ease and connection. Today, she approached him, claiming to have heard about his supposed open relationship with Fiza.

Curiosity piqued, Alan responded with a nonchalant tone, concealing the fact that he and Fiza were merely close friends. "Oh, is that so?" he inquired, eager to gauge Jyothi's intentions.

Leaning in closer, Jyothi adopted a candid approach. "Let me be honest with you," she began. "I find you attractive. Perhaps we can reach some sort of arrangement."

Amused by her proposition, Alan chuckled. "What kind of arrangement are we talking about?" he asked, intrigued.

"Alternate weekends," Jyothi suggested, a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "And if Fiza is open to it, maybe even a threesome." She winked.

Alan's laughter intensified at the audacity of Jyothi's proposal, unable to fathom the idea of approaching Fiza with such a suggestion. Jyothi placed her hand on his upper thigh and delicately stroked it before removing her hand.

Beneath his amusement, he recognized a flicker of excitement at Jyothi's touch. It stirred something within him, something he hadn't experienced with Anna. He realized that his body craved physical connection.

Clearing his throat, Alan composed himself and met Jyothi's playful gaze. He realized that he no longer desired anything casual; he yearned for a deeper connection. "I'm not sure that's what I want," he admitted, cautiously exploring the possibility of something more substantial with her.

His eyes however found Fiza who was approaching them. His heart accelerating at the mere sight of her. No, he didn't want this with anyone else.

"No strings attached," Jyothi concluded with a hint of finality as Fiza approached their table. Without another word, she turned and walked away.