HOME SWEET HOME
[NOVEMBER, 21, 2024]
Homecoming to China
The plane landed smoothly on the Beijing tarmac, the city lights twinkling in the early evening sky. Rivaan and Jilpa stepped out, both exhausted but strangely exhilarated after their months of training and adventures in India.
As they walked through the airport, Jilpa glanced at Rivaan, smirking.
Jilpa: "So, lover boy, feeling homesick yet? Or are you still stuck in that Goa sunset moment?"
Rivaan (groaning): "Drop it, Jilpa. It's been hours. Aren't you tired of making fun of me?"
Jilpa: "Never. It's my life's purpose now."
They made their way to the taxi stand, their banter drawing a few curious stares. Rivaan kept his head down, clutching his duffel bag, while Jilpa waved enthusiastically to flag down a cab.
The ride to their shared apartment was quiet, the city's bustling energy contrasting sharply with the serene landscapes they had left behind.
Settling In
When they reached their apartment, everything felt oddly smaller than they remembered. The training in vast open spaces made their modest home seem cramped.
Jilpa threw his bag onto the couch and stretched.
Jilpa: "Ah, home sweet home. Time to destroy this place with my cooking experiments again."
Rivaan (snorting): "Please don't. I'd like to keep our kitchen functional for at least a week."
As Rivaan unpacked, he found himself pausing to look at a photo frame on his desk—a picture of his family before the tragedy. He sighed, setting it back down carefully.
Jilpa noticed and sat beside him.
Jilpa: "You okay, man?"
Rivaan: "Yeah. Just... it's weird being back. Everything feels the same, but I'm not the same anymore."
Jilpa (grinning): "Good. The old you was too soft. Now you're a proper powerhouse. Plus, you've got a whole love confession to motivate you."
Rivaan chuckled despite himself.
Rivaan: "You're never letting that go, are you?"
Jilpa: "Not in this lifetime."
Back to Reality
The next morning, Rivaan woke to the smell of something burning. He rushed to the kitchen to find Jilpa wrestling with a smoking frying pan.
Rivaan: "What are you doing? Are you trying to burn the apartment down?"
Jilpa: "Relax! I'm experimenting. How hard can making pancakes be?"
Rivaan (deadpan): "Very. Clearly."
The lighthearted moment was a reminder of how far they had come. Despite the looming threats and the trauma they had endured, life still offered moments of normalcy and humor.
A Grim Reminder
Later that day, Rivaan and Jilpa went to the nearby market to stock up on supplies. While walking back, they noticed something strange—a faint, unnatural chill in the air. Rivaan's 3rd eye activated instinctively, revealing faint traces of spiritual energy lingering in the streets.
Jilpa (frowning): "Do you feel that?"
Rivaan (nodding): "Yeah. It's faint, but it's there. Something's been here recently."
The playful mood vanished as they exchanged a glance. They knew their journey was far from over.
As they reached their apartment, Jilpa broke the silence.
Jilpa: "Whatever it is, we'll face it. Together. But first, I'm figuring out how to make pancakes without setting off the smoke alarm."
Rivaan (grinning): "Priorities, huh?"
Life in Beijing resumed, but the undercurrent of unease remained. Rivaan and Jilpa knew that their time to prepare was limited, and their next challenge might be closer than they thought.
A Day of Boredom
The sun rose over Beijing, casting warm golden light into Rivaan and Jilpa's apartment. But the atmosphere inside was anything but energetic. Both boys were sprawled on the couch, staring blankly at the ceiling.
Jilpa (groaning): "I can't believe I'm saying this, but I miss being chased by crazy spirits or punching demons in the face. This is unbearable."
Rivaan (half-asleep): "You're saying you'd rather fight a demon than relax for one day?"
Jilpa (rolling over): "At least it's something to do! I've rearranged my bag, counted the ceiling tiles, and tried meditating. Nothing's working. I'm losing my mind."
Rivaan lazily reached for the TV remote and flicked it on. He scrolled through channels but found nothing interesting—soap operas, cooking shows, and reruns of old dramas.
Rivaan: "How about TV?"
Jilpa (snorting): "Great. Let's watch people live interesting lives while we waste away here. Thrilling."
Attempting to Be Productive
After a painfully slow breakfast, Jilpa suggested they train to make the day productive. Rivaan reluctantly agreed.
They set up a makeshift training area in the living room, moving furniture to the sides. Jilpa summoned his spiritual chains, practicing precise movements, while Rivaan worked on controlling the intensity of his light beams.
But after an hour, both of them sat back down, drenched in sweat and utterly unmotivated.
Jilpa: "This isn't working. It feels forced. Training should be exciting, not... boring."
Rivaan (nodding): "Yeah. It's like we're going through the motions. Maybe we need a real challenge to get fired up again."
Jilpa: "Or a video game console."
The Great Procrastination Debate
As the afternoon dragged on, they cycled through a series of half-hearted ideas:
Rivaan: "We could clean the apartment?"
Jilpa: "No thanks. That's way too responsible for me."
Jilpa: "How about cooking? I could finally master pancakes."
Rivaan: "Do you want to kill us both?"
Rivaan: "What about exploring the city? Maybe there's something new to check out."
Jilpa: "You want to walk around in this heat? Pass."
Eventually, they settled back onto the couch, defeated.
A Spark of an Idea
By evening, Rivaan suddenly sat up.
Rivaan: "What if we planned our next adventure?"
Jilpa (raising an eyebrow): "Next adventure? You mean, like, going to Egypt in April?"
Rivaan: "Exactly. We've got a few months before that. Why not find something to keep us busy until then? There's bound to be more mysteries around here or somewhere nearby."
Jilpa thought about it for a moment, then grinned.
Jilpa: "Alright. Let's do it. But first, let's order some takeout. Brainstorming requires fuel."
Rivaan (smirking): "Always thinking about food, huh?"
Jilpa: "It's my superpower."
As they placed their order, the day didn't feel so wasted anymore.
The Realization
As the delivery guy rang the bell, Rivaan opened the door with his usual polite smile. The tantalizing aroma of dumplings, fried rice, and sweet-and-sour chicken wafted into the apartment. Jilpa peeked over Rivaan's shoulder, visibly excited.
Delivery Guy: "Your total is 98 yuan."
Rivaan dug into his wallet, pulling out a stack of crumpled bills and coins. He counted slowly, his expression growing more concerned with each passing second.
Rivaan: "Uh... Jilpa? You've got your wallet, right?"
Jilpa (checking his pockets): "Nope. Left it in the room. What's wrong?"
Rivaan (whispering): "We barely have enough. This is literally all we've got."
They managed to scrape together exactly 98 yuan and handed it over, thanking the delivery guy awkwardly. Once the door closed, Jilpa dropped onto the couch with the food in hand.
Jilpa (laughing nervously): "That's it, huh? We're officially broke. We couldn't even tip him!"
Rivaan (sitting beside him): "Yeah... This isn't good. How did we let it get this bad?"
Jilpa: "Simple. Training, traveling, and absolutely no income. Guess the bank of adventure is bankrupt."
The Job Hunt Begins
As they ate, the two brainstormed ways to fix their financial woes.
Rivaan: "Alright. We need jobs. Part-time, obviously. Something flexible so we can still train."
Jilpa (smirking): "What, you think they're hiring demon slayers or chain-wielding waiters around here?"
Rivaan: "Be serious, Jilpa. We'll have to settle for normal stuff. Retail, food service, maybe tutoring."
Jilpa (grinning): "Or we could start a street performance. You with your light beams and me with my chains? Bet we'd make a fortune."
Rivaan (deadpan): "And get arrested."
Jilpa (shrugging): "Fair point."
Rejection After Rejection
The next morning, Rivaan and Jilpa hit the streets, determined to find jobs to save their wallets from total annihilation. They started with high hopes but quickly realized the harsh reality: their lack of experience—and occasional clumsiness—was a massive roadblock.
Rivaan's Café Interview:
Manager: "So, you've worked in food service before?"
Rivaan (nervously): "Not exactly. But I'm great with people!"
Manager: "Hmm. We'll call you."
Jilpa's Gym Interview:
Manager: "Ever trained anyone before?"
Jilpa (grinning): "Not officially, but I've trained myself to be awesome!"
Manager: "Right. We're looking for certified trainers."
After a dozen similar encounters, the duo slumped onto a park bench.
Rivaan: "Why is this so hard? We're literally overqualified in everything except... you know, normal jobs."
Jilpa (sighing): "Maybe we should just start performing tricks on the street like I said. Got any chains I can juggle?"
Rivaan: "We'd get arrested before we made a cent."
The Butler Café Break
Just when they were about to give up, they stumbled upon a quirky advertisement pinned to a noticeboard:
"Now Hiring: Waiters for Ladies-Only Butler Café. No experience needed. Apply in person!"
Jilpa (snorting): "A butler café? Seriously? That's our shot?"
Rivaan (grinning): "Hey, desperate times, man."
When they arrived, the manager, a petite but sharp-eyed woman named Ms. Zhou, looked them up and down with a critical eye.
Ms. Zhou: "You two look... interesting. Do you have any experience serving customers?"
Rivaan (hesitant): "Not exactly."
Jilpa (confidently): "But we're fast learners!"
Ms. Zhou (nodding): "Fine. Let's see what you've got. Trial starts now."
First Days at the Café
To their surprise, the job wasn't as easy as they'd hoped. Rivaan struggled to balance trays of tea without spilling, while Jilpa occasionally forgot to stay in "butler mode" and reverted to his usual casual banter.
However, one thing quickly became apparent: Jilpa was a magnet for attention.
Jilpa's Sudden Stardom
The café catered exclusively to women, and Jilpa's striking appearance—his silvery hair, piercing eyes, and natural charm—instantly caught the attention of nearly every customer.
Customer 1 (whispering): "Is he new? He's gorgeous!"
Customer 2 (giggling): "Look at his eyes! They're like gemstones!"
Jilpa, oblivious to the fuss, carried on serving tea and chatting with customers. But Rivaan couldn't help noticing the trail of dreamy-eyed stares wherever Jilpa went.
Rivaan (teasing): "Looks like you've got a fan club."
Jilpa (confused): "What are you talking about?"
Rivaan: "The girls, genius. They're all staring at you like you're a celebrity."
Jilpa (grinning): "Guess I can't help it. Must be the hair."
Rivaan's Redemption
Though Jilpa stole the spotlight, Rivaan found his own rhythm after a few days. His calm demeanor and warm smile made him a favorite among the quieter customers, who appreciated his attentive service.
Customer: "You're so polite, Rivaan. It's refreshing."
Rivaan (smiling): "Thanks. Just trying not to spill anything today."
Finding Balance
After a week, they both settled into the job. The café became an unexpected blessing, not only providing a steady income but also teaching them valuable skills like teamwork, patience, and—most importantly—not dropping teapots.
During breaks, they laughed about their early mishaps.
Jilpa: "Remember when I called that customer 'dude' by accident? Thought Ms. Zhou was gonna murder me."
Rivaan: "Or when I tripped over my own feet and spilled tea on myself? Highlight of my week."
Evening Reflections
Each night after work, they returned to their apartment, exhausted but satisfied. Their days were filled with training after their shifts, perfecting their powers and preparing for the challenges ahead.
Jilpa: "Who knew being broke would lead us here?"
Rivaan: "Not me. But hey, it's not so bad. At least we've got food money now."
As they drifted off to sleep, they couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Their lives had taken an unusual turn, but they were making it work—one tray of tea at a time.
A New Addition to the Team
A few weeks into their job at the café, Rivaan and Jilpa noticed a new face among the staff. A tall, cheerful guy with short black hair and a mischievous smile was introduced during the morning staff meeting.
Ms. Zhou (clapping her hands): "Everyone, meet Wei! He's joining us as a butler. Be nice and show him the ropes."
Wei (grinning): "Nice to meet you all! I've never been a butler before, but hey, how hard can it be, right?"
Rivaan and Jilpa exchanged amused glances.
Jilpa (whispering): "Looks like someone's as clueless as we were."
Rivaan: "Let's hope he doesn't drop any trays on his first day."
Learning the Ropes
Wei's first day was, as expected, chaotic. He fumbled with trays, forgot orders, and once accidentally addressed a customer as "sir," earning a glare from Ms. Zhou. Despite the mishaps, his enthusiasm and humor quickly won over the staff.
Wei (groaning): "Why does balancing tea feel like an Olympic sport?"
Rivaan (chuckling): "You'll get used to it. Just… don't try to multitask too soon."
Jilpa: "Or call anyone 'dude.' Trust me, it doesn't go over well."
The three of them quickly bonded, often working the same shifts and helping each other out during busy hours.
Adventures Outside the Café
After a particularly grueling shift, Wei suggested they hang out outside of work.
Wei: "There's this night market nearby. You guys in? My treat for surviving another day without spilling tea on someone."
Rivaan: "You had me at 'treat.'"
Jilpa: "Night market? Count me in."
The trio explored the market, laughing at bizarre souvenirs, sampling street food, and competing in a dart-throwing game. Wei managed to win a small stuffed pig, which he proudly handed to Jilpa.
Wei (grinning): "For our resident heartthrob. Maybe it'll distract your fan club."
Jilpa (rolling his eyes): "Very funny. Thanks, though."
Back at the café, their camaraderie translated into smoother shifts. They developed a system: Jilpa charmed the customers, Rivaan handled the quieter ones, and Wei provided comic relief, keeping the mood light even during the busiest hours.
Customer: "You three make a great team. Do you always work together?"
Wei (winking): "We're like the three musketeers, but with better outfits."
Late-Night Conversations
On their nights off, the trio often found themselves sitting on the apartment balcony, sharing stories about their lives. Wei revealed that he was saving up to start a food truck, a dream he'd had since he was a kid.
Wei: "One day, I'll have a truck that serves the best dumplings in the city. You guys better be my first customers."
Jilpa: "As long as they're free, I'm in."
Rivaan (smirking): "Free food? Now you're speaking my language."
A Friendship Sealed
Their friendship deepened as they navigated the challenges of work and life together. Wei became an integral part of their daily routine, adding humor and warmth to their days.
On their last shift together before Wei left to start his food truck journey, the three shared a quiet moment in the backroom.
Wei (smiling): "I'll miss you guys. But don't worry—I'll bring dumplings to the café when I make it big."
Jilpa: "You better. And don't forget to name a dish after me."
Rivaan: "And me. Something spicy."
As they bid Wei farewell, Rivaan and Jilpa realized how much their time at the café had meant—not just for the money but for the friendships they'd built along the way.
Their journey continued, but they knew they'd never forget the laughter and camaraderie of their time with Wei at the butler café.
December 2nd: Jilpa's Birthday
The day started like any other. The chilly December air crept into their small apartment, and Jilpa was already up, groggily preparing a cup of tea. Rivaan walked out of his room with a small, knowing smile.
Rivaan: "Morning, birthday boy."
Jilpa blinked, his mind struggling to catch up.
Jilpa: "Birthday? Oh... it's my birthday."
He hadn't even realized. The weight of his memories, the loss, and the busyness of their current life had clouded his mind.
Rivaan (playfully): "Forgot your own birthday? That's tragic, Jilpa."
Jilpa managed a chuckle, though his heart wasn't in it.
A Small Celebration
Rivaan had planned something modest yet meaningful. After their shift at the café, he led Jilpa to a nearby rooftop garden he'd reserved for the evening. There was a small cake, a couple of lanterns casting a warm glow, and a table with Jilpa's favorite food.
Rivaan (grinning): "Not bad for two broke butlers, huh?"
Jilpa smiled softly, appreciating the effort. They spent the evening reminiscing about their training, their journey so far, and even some lighthearted teasing about Jilpa's charm with the café customers.
A Sudden Wave of Sadness
Later that night, after Rivaan went to his room, Jilpa sat alone on the living room couch. The warmth of the celebration faded, replaced by an ache in his chest. Memories of his mother flooded back—the way she used to bake him a cake, the handmade gifts, and her laughter.
Tears welled up as guilt clawed at his heart.
Jilpa (whispering): "I should've been faster. I should've saved her."
He slipped into his room and buried his face in his hands, the tears flowing freely now. His sobs echoed softly through the apartment.
Rivaan's Choice
Rivaan, in his room, heard everything. He sat up in his bed, debating whether to go comfort Jilpa. But then he paused, thinking about the weight Jilpa carried.
Rivaan (to himself): "Some things... you have to work through on your own."
He decided to let Jilpa grieve in peace, knowing that forcing comfort might only deepen the pain. Instead, Rivaan resolved to be there for Jilpa in the days to come—ready to listen when Jilpa was ready to talk.
The Night Ends
Jilpa eventually fell asleep, the exhaustion of his emotions overtaking him. Rivaan sat by his window, staring out at the moonlit cityscape, silently vowing to make sure Jilpa never felt alone, even in his darkest moments.
For now, he could only wait and hope that Jilpa would let him in when the time was right.
THANK YOU FOR READING
TO BE CONTINUED