~Episode 14~
The school bell rang loudly, and the sound spread through every classroom. Ivan slowly grabbed his bag. His hand was still hurting, so he pressed his palm against his pant pocket, trying to stop the pain for a moment. He walked out of the classroom without looking at anyone.
Other students were laughing and talking loudly as they came out. Some boys were pushing each other playfully, some girls were making plans about where to go after school. A few of them were excited about eating pani puri and other street food. The whole corridor was full of noise, but Ivan walked quietly in the middle of it.
He reached the school gate and stood there. He looked tired, and he kept moving his fingers because of the pain in his hand. Students passed by him with bicycles and bags, but he just waited silently.
After a moment, he saw Ryaan running toward him. Ryaan looked like he had rushed out quickly, his hair messy, his steps fast.
"Where were you?" Ivan asked when he saw him coming closer.
"I was in the principal's office…" Ryaan said, breathing a little heavy.
"Why?" Ivan asked, raising his eyebrows.
"Some seniors crossed my path," Ryaan said. "They want me to join their stupid bike-riding group."
Ivan looked at him and said, "You'd do better if you joined them."
"Why? How?" Ryaan asked, confused.
"Their group would make you stand out at school," Ivan replied. His voice was simple and calm, like he didn't care much.
They both started walking slowly. Students on bicycles passed them, ringing bells, talking loudly, and rushing to leave the school grounds.
"I don't need that," Ryaan said without looking at him.
"Seems you've already decided," Ivan said softly.
"Decided what?" Ryaan asked.
"To try to make me your friend?" Ivan said, keeping his eyes straight.
Ryaan stopped for a second and looked at him. "Aren't we already friends?"
"No," Ivan replied. "Asking me to come to your house on our first meeting felt weird."
Ryaan looked shocked. "Did you think I'd kill my father? Did you actually believe that?"
Ivan looked down. "I don't know," he said quietly.
Ryaan took a slow breath. "Don't be afraid. We'll be good friends, I promise."
"Trust?" Ivan asked, his voice weak.
"Haven't I earned it?" Ryaan said, looking straight ahead.
"No… that's not it," Ivan said. "I'm busy today. I planned to finish my assignment alone."
Ryaan nodded even though he looked a little disappointed. "If that's what you want, I respect your choice."
They both continued walking, not talking for a few seconds. The road outside was noisy with students leaving, bicycles moving, and people shouting to their friends.
"Wait," Ivan said suddenly. "Can I ask you something?"
"Sure," Ryaan replied. "Ask — I'm listening."
Ivan kicked a small stone on the ground while walking. He took a moment before speaking again.
"Did you ever love your mom?" he asked quietly.
Ryaan stopped for a second. "What a ridiculous question, Ivan… seriously, what were you thinking?"
Ivan's voice shook a little. "Because I never did."
Ryaan looked at him, his face more serious now. "That's the difference between your life and mine."