There were nothing much of academics very soon. Hence, Shubh passed on a list of the names to be entered for picnic. He didn't care much if anyone were ready or not, as he was only looking out for one name. After few minutes when he checked the list, first name in the list was none other than of Laxmi. He was relieved that she would be part of it. Slowly many students entered their names as well. He looked forward to spend a great time with her and maybe even get to know her more.
They were planning to book a whole farm for themselves but it was a peak time so almost all the farms were booked already. And the available ones were smaller to accommodate around 30 people in the swimming pool. Thus they settled for a water park. That would have been a good chance to impress her or anyone. Thus, Shubh took a challenge to bulk up a bit and show off some well-built muscles. That could change the image of him being skinny in everyone's mind. He started working out every day and eating raw eggs, lots of rice etc. because of just a few minutes of shirtless time to impress.
He had waited till the end to book the transport and pool for many were unsure due to distance to be travelled. Another factor was transport, due to pandemic, many local transport hadn't started at normal pace. Organizing a private bus would have been costly. Their temporary solution was, they has three cars and few bikes available, which could accommodate all. Shubh, Raj and Laxmi all were ready with their cars. Dates were yet to be finalized. With everyone's consent and suggestions, the date was finalized to be one weekend away.
One week had passed, everyone awaited the day for the picnic. All was set and done. Shubh was just excited to spend some time with Laxmi and prepared all the dialogues and scenes in his mind each day. Six days before picnic, he received a message in group from Laxmi stating she couldn't make up to picnic. Shubh read the message thrice before believing it and processing. He thought maybe date issue was the concern, so he messaged her privately.
Any issues? We can try to solve: Shub
Lax: My parents are planning a tour and won't leave me alone
Oh okay. Have a safe journey: Shub
Lax: thankyou and sorry
Shuuu: Shub
Lax: if tour get cancelled ill come
Yeah cool. I hope you come to picnic: Shub
Shubh couldn't think anything. He proposed to postpone the picnic but none agreed to it. So finally it had to be organized. Next day, he was finalizing the names of all whoever were going for the picnic. When Laxmi pointed out that his name itself is not written.
"Who said I'm going?" he replied. To this everyone were shocked for they liked his company a lot. They all asked him the reason and he said "simply". Actually he wanted to say, "I wanted to spend time with Lax but if she's not gonna be there then what's the use?" They thought he was bluffing because of his sarcastic nature. They were correct, but he wished to have fun with Lax.
Then Jas, same height as Shubh, fair and smart, soft spoken and a good leader, called him and asked, "Why aren't you coming? Do you have a date?" Laxmi was besides her as well.
He said, "You need a girl to go on the date. I don't have one."
Jas asked, "Then what's the matter?" She knew him well enough and said, "You are coming, we don't leave our friends behind."
Shubh was overwhelmed by listening her statement. He thought about just going and enjoying. But didn't allow anyone to know that. "Let's see" he said and took their leave.
He kept it secret till the day of the picnic whether he would join them or not. They were left with only two cars now and few bikes. He managed others travel in local bus. In the morning, the messenger group someone stated that Shubh hadn't entered his name in the list yet. Shubh got a call from an unknown number which he answered, "Hello!"
"Are you joining us or not?" said a girls voice "or else I am returning right now". Shubh recognized the voice. It was Disa, cute short and stout girl from his class. She was the most hilarious person and a fun to be with. Her laugh was just very contagious.
He replied, "Oh yes dude. I am surely joining you. Don't go back home. See you at the spot."
"Good. Come fast." Said Disa and hung up. And soon she texted in the group that Shubh was surely coming.
As soon as her message was sent, he got a message from Laxmi.
Lax: Are you seriously not gonna go?
Sshuu. It's a top secret: Shub
Lax: Lol.
Shubh was in joy that she Laxmi cared if he was going or not. He wished that it was a genuine concern and not just a casual question. He thought about replying, however he couldn't think of any response and just got back preparing to leave for picnic. On his way he kept thinking of some response to message Laxmi. And he came up with a shot one. He planned to send a message stating her friends are missing her. It sounded very cool and it was truth as well, since he was going to miss her enough for everyone.
When he texted, reply that came was just, "Aww". At that moment, he loved and hated 'aww' at the same time. He did enjoy the picnic, which could have been the best if Laxmi was present as well. Everyone were satisfied with the fun they had. Shubh was just ready to go for another one where his loved one would join as well. But it was a long way away.