Chapter 16

I wanted to continue talking to her. I wanted to know her full name

and her native place. That is how we introduce ourselves in Dumraon.

However, I didn't know how to ask her in English, the language one

needed to impress girls. Plus, I had a selection trial in a few minutes.

The coach blew his whistle.

'I have my trials now, will you watch?'I said.

'Okay,

'she said.

I ran—rather, hopped—in excitement towards the changing room.

Soon, I was back on court and Piyush started the game.

I played well. I don't want to brag but I played better than any

player on the college team.

'Basket,

'I shouted as I scored my fifth shot. As the crowd dapped,

I looked around. She was sitting on one of the benches, sipping water

from a bottle. She clapped too.

I had a good game, but her presence made me play even better.

The score inched forward; I pushed myself harder and scored a

few more baskets. When I took a tough shot, the seniors patted my

back. Piyush blew the final whistle. Final score: 25-28. We had done it.

The newbies had managed to defeat die St. Stephen's team.

My body was drenched in sweat. I felt drained and exhausted.

Players patted my back as I struggled to catch my breath. Piyush came

running up to me in the middle of the court.

'You scored 17 out of 28. Well done, Bihari,

' he said. He ruffled my

sweaty hair. I walked out of the court deliberately towards Riya.

'Wow, you really are good,

'she said.

'Thanks,

'I said, still panting after the game.

'Anyway, I have to go,

'she said and extended her hand. 'Nice

meeting you. Bye.'

'Bye,

'I said, my heart sinking. My head had known it would end

like this. My heart didn't want it to end.

'Unless we are both lucky,

'she added and grinned. 'And the higher

powers here admit us.'

'Who knows,

'I said.