1:30 p.m. clocked the time when I entered the library. Just as I picked up my favourite "The Indian Express" newspaper and turned to my table, when I heard a strange person calling me, "Agastya!"
Everyone in the library made a peculiar look on him to which he replied, "Sorry..!" with a posture trying to cool down.
I approached to him and asked, "Did you call me?"
Strange Guy: Hi.. I am Shubham. If I am not wrong, you are Agastya. Actually, last year in November, when you staged the programme on Dinanath's wedding party, I saw you there. I was mesmerized by your voice. I attended the wedding from bride's side.
(He introduced himself.)
As I turned to the girl who he was playing chess with at the moment, he continued.
Shubham: She is Bhanumati, my sister. We are taking part in the District Chess Competition scheduled next month in June. It's for 18+ and mostly bachelor students are taking part.
Me: Thank you for your appreciation! Can I participate?
Bhanumati: (interruption) Yes! If you are really good at it.
(She looked quite tensed in the game.)
Me: If you don't mind, can I play 3 chances from your side!
Shubham: (joking) Why will she mind? She is already losing the game!
Bhanumati was vexed.She gestured me to take the chances. I could see her queen is in danger. I couldn't save it anyway. So, I just moved the rook and the knight close to his king. He was happy attacking on my powers. And the last chance, just a pawn check with support of Bishop, quite afar, it was Check-mate.
Bhanumati: (tuned in celebration) Woo-hoo... hahaha!
Both: You should definitely participate!
Shubham: Send me your ID card photocopy and phone number. I will get your name enrolled. You will get a participation confirmation on your phone by tomorrow.
I had my ID with me and photocopied it there in the library. Shubham enrolled my name instantly.
Me: Thank you to both of you. I take your pardon now. I have to go through the newspaper.
(I asked to take leave and look into the journals.)
Both: Okay! Go on!
Bhanumati: (curious) Do you visit here regularly?
Me: Yeah! These days I do come here daily. I am pursuing law. Rather than snoring at home, it's better to spend these sizzling hours here.
(I responded her with a smile.)
Librarian: (breaking in) If you are not done with your guff, then go out. Or, take the seat and read!
Both: Okay, Agastya. Bye!
(They both took leave.)
I started checking in the journals, noting the important lines and revising the tags with the respective books. There was always much to learn about. The events, cases, changes that have occurred in the history and until now are mysterious. Maybe we conclude with some of the reasons but wait... there are a lot of secrets to uncover.
My watch clocked 4:30 p.m. It took me 10 minutes back to my home.