chapter 20

Part 20: Emotions Between ExamsFinal exams of Class 9 had arrived. The school atmosphere had changed completely. Where there used to be fun and endless chatter, now everything was about syllabus, revisions, and exam strategies.Riya was completely immersed in her studies. She had created a strict timetable — from early morning till late night. Her notes, highlighters, and sticky reminders were scattered all over her study table. Yet, even in the middle of all this, a part of her was always reserved for Monkey — Dhirav.She had once told him, “You can do it, Dhirav. You know everything. You just need a little focus this time.”Dhirav would always joke, “Last time I was out of syllabus.”And Riya would laugh and say, “Well this time, the paper is going to be within the syllabus, Monkey!”Riya had ranked in Class 8, but Dhirav hadn’t — not because he lacked knowledge, but because he had never taken exams seriously. But this time… Dhirav was focused. Maybe Riya’s words had sparked something inside him.Every night, a small chat on WhatsApp had become part of their routine.Dhirav: “Good luck for tomorrow, White Crow.”Riya: “You too, Monkey. Tomorrow, you’ll top.”Dhirav: “If you say so… it’ll happen.”Exam week was intense. Maths, Science, SST… each subject drained their energy. But their tiny words of encouragement to each other kept them going.On result day, every student was nervous. When the list was pinned to the school notice board, everyone rushed to check their names.Riya walked slowly towards it. She scanned the list — her name was there, in 4th position.A small smile curved on her lips… but then her eyes landed on the 2nd position — Dhirav.Her face lit up.Just then, she heard a voice behind her, “So, White Crow… you told me I could do it. Look, I actually did. Though honestly, I still don’t know how!”Riya turned around — Dhirav stood there, holding a Dairy Milk and a small card.The card said:“If you hadn’t said it, I’d never have studied seriously. You’re not just my bestie… you’re my inspiration too.”Riya took the chocolate, her eyes a little emotional. “I’m proud of you, Monkey,” she said softly.Dhirav smirked with a touch of sarcasm, “And I was hoping you’d come third… but you landed fourth!”They both burst into laughter.Then Riya said, “Next time, I’ll be second… and you’ll be first!”Dhirav winked, “Deal!”That rank wasn't just about numbers… it was a milestone in their bond — where one had supported, inspired, and believed in the other. Without pressure. Just love.