Monday, 28th December 2015
Today, we have a math and science test in school, and thank God, Dad was available yesterday for help in the preparation of the test. I know John and Pawan will have a fight again today about who will score first and second.
Please don't get me wrong, they don't do physical violence. It is just a cold fight with a pen and answer paper. They have tough competition when comes to math and science and today we have both the subject test.
Again, as usual, I woke up at 6 in the morning and get ready for school. I don't wear fancy stuff at school. I believe I am going to school, not on a fashion show. It doesn't mean I don't dress well, just as simple as required.
At school, the first period is of math and I can clearly see the faces filled with horror because of the math test. I am confident that I will get at least 75% marks.
The teacher enters the class and immediately starts distributing the question paper. I must admit it was a little tough but still, I did well and sure to have at least 70% marks.
I ask John, Pawan, and Bhavika about their test.
John, "I will get at least 95% marks."
Pawan, "That means you are lost this time because I will surely get 97%."
John, "In your dreams, I said at least 95% and it means I can get 100% as well."
Bhavika, "It went pretty bad for me. I don't know if I could even pass the test or not. God, please take care of me. My mom will kill me if I failed."
I, "Don't worry, you are imagining stuff. I know you can't fail."
Bhavika, "I hope you are right."
I, "Now, concentrate on the science test. You don't want to ruin it just because you are worried about what's done.
"Thanks, Ashu", Bhavika.
The science period is after lunch. I notice a few students preparing for the test keeping book under the table while acting that they are attentive in the class. I think, "Hey, acting is my job."
After the 5th period, the bell for lunch break rings and we head to the playground to have lunch but those same students are sitting in the class for studying even in the break. The only difference is this time they are sitting in a single group.
I join the rest of the team Taaleem in the playground. We ate our lunch and I call Shubham at a more private place. He nods and comes with me.
Shubham, "What's the matter?"
I, "Hey, that's my line. Why are you ignoring the conversation I want you to do with Bhavika before someone else does it?"
Shubham, "Look! I told you earlier that this isn't easy."
I, "But you have to do it, easy or not. Where is the brave Shubham I know?"
Shubham, "Now you are blackmailing me."
Looking at us talking in private, Kritika comes towards us, "What are you two talking about."
I, "Nothing serious. You tell me when is your meeting with Ms. Psychologist."
Kritika, "After lunch but I don't think I need it."
Shubham and I speak together, "Yes, you need it." and starts laughing because of this coincidence or maybe our coordination.
I say, "We don't want any risk and if you refuse, I will make sure you have a complete session even if a have to drop my science test and get an F."
Kritika, "Okay, I get it. I will go surely."
Shubham, "That's like a good girl."
She laughs at Shubham's comment and the bell rings indicating the end of the break.
The science test was also quite easy and I completed in just half of the given time. Our teachers give marks based on the quality of the answer and not based on how many sheets we have filled. This is the best school possible.
When school was about to over, I went to the Principal's office with an application in my hand for approval so that we can stay in the school playground after school. Mandeep was with me the whole time. It wasn't hard because our principal is already impressed with us.
Luckily, she signed the application. We give the news to the rest of the team. They were happy to hear the news. We are left with only a little time so without wasting any, we head to our practice.
John was still off track. During practice, I call him, "Hey, John! Where are you?"
John, "Can't you see? I am in front of you."
I, "Yes but only physically and I am talking about your mental presence."
John, "Oh, sorry, I just lost my track."
After practice, we pack up and headed our way. I was having an urge to pee so I tell them to move ahead and I with come after using the toilet.
When I reached the first turn after leaving school and find Kritika hiding in bushes. I tap on her shoulder and she startled. I let her calm and ask, "What are you doing here?"
She points her finger toward the same guy who tried to harass her. I tell her, "Come on, he can't create any mess with you anymore and you know that. Even if you are not at ease let me drop you to your home on my bicycle."
She nods and sits behind my bicycle. I think, "I was right she needs counseling. I hope she will recover soon."
After dropping her, I head to my house. Mom was standing at the door looking for me. She asks me the reason for being late. I explain everything and she said that I did the right thing and she is proud of me.
In my room, I make a self-note in my mind about not forcing Shubham to propose Bhavika until the competition is over. Mom calls me for dinner. After dinner, Bobby asks my help for her homework.
On Tuesday, our class gets a lot of homework but we are not just any students, we are the Taaleem. So, keeping our competition in mind, we were allowed to submit it on Monday while others have to submit it on Thursday.
On Wednesday, the class was asking us about our practice and one student confirmed that the chief guest is Sabrynabrooklynne and it is a big opportunity for us to showcase our talent. Another student said that one of the judges, Uma Shankar, is known for placing child models. I was excited to tell this Kritika.
On Thursday, we had our final practice and pack up early so that we can have proper rest. It was Mandeep's idea. He really takes care of little things that impact a lot.
That night was really difficult to sleep in because of the excitement but I manage to fall asleep.