He Said No When I Asked Him Out, But Then The Unexpected Happened…
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*For representational purpose only.
Oh, he is online! Her heart started beating faster.
Should I? What would he think of me? But we liked each other at school, so maybe there’s a chance. But only if I try.
“Hi. Is this Arjun?” I texted him.
Oh, I did it! What the hell! Now whatever happens, let it be. It’s been 10 years since we last met. But I’m sure he’ll remember me.
Why he’s not replying; maybe he doesn’t reply to strangers. I shouldn’t have sent the text, but if not now, then when?
“Hi. Yes, it is. May I know who this is?”
Finally!! Well, let me see if he remembers.
“Hi, I’m Sejal. We were together in DPS until the 10th. Same division; we both were toppers in 9th.”
I hope he remembers me. Even if we hadn't spoken much, there clearly was something between us...
“Hey Sejal. I remember! Nice to hear from you.”
Thank God! Now what? I’m excited but completely blank on how to take it forward.
Oh, he’s typing!
“Long time it’s been! How did you get my number?”
“Last night, I bumped into Anjaly; she mentioned that you have been working in Pune for the last three months. Then she sent me your number.”
How can I tell him that I snatched her phone and took his number out of excitement? She said that my face lit up when I heard he’s in the city.
“Oh, really? I’m in touch with Anjaly nowadays. So, how have you been all these years?”
It seems like he's showing an interest in knowing about me now... or is this just a formality?
“Good, actually! I have completed my post-graduation here for the last three months. How about you?”
Oh shit! What will he think if I’m using such short texts? Let me type normally from now on.
“Cool. I just moved in last month. I was working in Mumbai last year.”
Like, I don’t know all these. I only think I didn’t have his number.
"Hey, I heard you travelled alone to the Himalayas last year. Is it? How was that?”
Now I have started with something that could excite him; at least I hope so!
Oh, he's gone offline. Was he not interested? Did I sound over-excited? I thought I was keeping it on the down low. Maybe he got a phone call or something... but it's 9.40 at night... could it be his girlfriend?
Come on, it might just be his family... I should show some patience. At least we've started speaking. My boring evening has turned slightly eventful.
Uff, it's already been two minutes... where is he?
Ok, I'm sure he has a girlfriend by now. He's so charming. Even Anjaly had a think for him!
"Sorry, I got a call. Yeah, last September, I went. And please note that it is not the Himalayas, just some villages in the valley. And it’s been really great.”
A call? I hope it was from his mother, or some family... I didn't read the rest of his message.
“Okay, how’s your life been?” How’s everyone at home?”
I clearly remember his parents and older brother. This should indicate to him that I do care about him... wouldn't it? I knew I was giving it my all... I just had to.
“Oh, they are doing great. Thanks for asking! How are things at your end?”
What am I supposed to say? Everything's been normal... boring almost... but I want to keep this conversation going.
“Things are going well; work is exciting, but evening times are quite boring alone in the apartment."
There. I think that was a great reply. It shows I'm friendly, willing to talk more... and well, that I'm alone here. Well done girl!
“Well, you could go for a walk. The city is quite exciting. I do that every weekend”.
Wait, does this mean he's single? How can I know more? Should I ask him out now? Or wait for him... although I think I should just take the initiative here.
But what if he says no?
And all of this adrenaline and excitement of mine will be for nothing.
But what if someone else asks? Oh no!
I think him saying no to me, is better than not having asked at all.
"Maybe we can go together for a walk- you know, next weekend, if you don't have any plans?"
Shittt! Did I just send that message?
WHY! I should have just waited. Jeez... Girl, you really have to take it slow.
"Oh, are you asking me out on a date, ma'am?"
There was no use beating around the bush.
"Maybe! So... what about Sunday?"
"Hmmm, so sorry! It’s not possible for me! Sunday, I’m busy.”
Well, that's that. He's clearly not interested. I should have shown some patience or resistance. We were talking nicely. Maybe I could have spoken to him some more. Now, even being friends would be too weird.
God... why do I rush these things?
Wait, he's typing again...
“What about tomorrow?”
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