The next morning,
Rishab woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. As he got used to his current environment, he suddenly realized he had forgotten about his university life. He face-palmed himself for his stupidity, remembering that he still had to complete his graduation from the National Institute for Arts and Culture, one of the best places to graduate from for those who want to make their mark in the entertainment industry.
Rishab quickly gathered his materials and prepared for his classes, which he was resuming after a long break due to the drama filming. His university had allowed him to pursue the opportunity, as the auditions were held on campus and it provided a chance for young talents to shine.
After a quick bath, Rishab began to dress, selecting a light green sweater, white shirt, and cream-colored pants - a stylish and comfortable combination perfect for college. He admired himself in the mirror, praising his taste. "It's good to be young again," he said, combing his hair and blowing a kiss to his reflection.
Smiling at his own antics, Rishab headed out to the university in his Mercedes, a gift from his parents on his eighteenth birthday. He felt grateful for the opportunities he had and was determined to make the most of his time at university.
As Rishab drove through the gates, he was greeted by the imposing structure of the main building, with its grand entrance, sweeping staircases, and intricately designed auditorium. The green lawn spreads all over to the main building and the blue skies make it a picturesque sight in itself.
The campus was dotted with modern amenities, including a cutting-edge library, advanced performance theatres, and world-class auditoriums for the plays to be enacted.
The university's central courtyard, reminiscent of many of the movie's iconic scenes, was a hub of student activity, with picturesque walkways, vibrant gardens, and a tranquil fountain. The atmosphere was electric, with students from diverse backgrounds coming together to learn, grow, and thrive.
Inside the classrooms, Rishab found himself surrounded by his friends Josh, Karthik, and Manav greeted him with wide grins. "The star has arrived!" Josh exclaimed, high-fiving Rishab.
Karthik chuckled. "So, how does it feel to be a celebrity?"
Rishab laughed. "It's surreal, guys. I still can't believe it."
Manav teased, "We're surprised you didn't forget about us commoners."
Rishab playfully rolled his eyes. "Hey, I'm still the same guy. Just with a few more fans now."
The friends joked and teased each other, catching up on everything Rishab had missed during his time away filming. They discussed university gossip, shared funny stories, and exchanged juicy secrets.
Josh asked, "So, what was it like working with Catherine?"
Rishab smirked. "She's as fiery as her personality. But we got along great."
Karthik raised an eyebrow. "Fierier than your temper?"
Rishab chuckled. "Maybe. But I kept my cool...most of the time."
Manav snickered. "We're sure you did." and the guys laughed and made fun of his infamous temper around the people he is not close with.
The classroom quietened as the professor entered for their scene study class. As everyone were asked to perform a certain character which inspired them the most, the class went as lively and informative as it has to be by the directions of Mr. Joseph De.
Professor Joseph De is a veteran acting coach with over twenty years of experience in the industry. He has worked with numerous award-winning actors and has taught at several prestigious drama schools. He is known for his rigorous teaching style and his ability to push students to reach their full potential.
Rishab has learnt a lot from him in his previous life. He was a guiding light, a North star that showed me the way forward in my acting journey.
It was under his mentorship that Rishab discovered the true meaning of authenticity, vulnerability, and courage in acting.
Even when he was at the peak of his career, Rishab found himself returning to these lessons that he learned here in this class. Although he could not give the credit of his acting to Prof. Joseph De in his previous life, he would be forever grateful and be indebted to him. Now that he has an opportunity, he would make his teacher proud with his achievements in this life.
As the classes for the day ended after a class of speech techniques, the rest of the afternoon was free for the students to explore their opportunities. Being in the junior year of university they are given an opportunity to start their careers even before they graduate.
Karthik and Manav decided to have lunch together as Rishab and Josh rejected their invitation citing various other reasons.
As the speech techniques class came to a close, Karthik and Manav exchanged a look and shrugged. "Guess it's just us for lunch, then," Karthik said with a chuckle.
Manav nodded, and they headed out of the classroom together. "Hey, where do you want to grab lunch?" Karthik asked.
Manav thought for a moment. "How about that new restaurant that just got renovated down the street? I've been waiting to try it out."
Karthik agreed, and they strolled out of the campus, enjoying the warm afternoon sun. As they walked, they chatted about their plans for the future.
"I'm thinking of interning at a production house this summer," Manav said, his eyes shining with excitement. "I heard they're looking for students to assist with their upcoming projects."
Karthik's eyes widened. "That's awesome! You'd be perfect for it. You're always so organized and on top of things."
Manav grinned. "Thanks Karthik. I'm really hoping to make it happen."
As they reached the restaurant, they spotted a few familiar faces from their university. They waved and joined the group, laughing and joking together.
Meanwhile, Rishab and Josh were pursuing their own interests. Rishab had decided to work on his monologue for an upcoming audition, while Josh was meeting with a potential client for his freelance writing services.
Rishab returned to his home before it turned dark with a package in his hands and a mail. This did not appear in his previous life. What could have changed in this life so early that this package arrived at this time was running in his mind as he opened the package.
He was utterly shocked as he went through the contents of the package and the mail, at the same time he was confused as hell about what was happening, "Why has this been given to me instead of Rocky as per the original timeline? What has gone wrong or is there such a conspiracy even at the early stages of my career?" He has to get to the bottom of it before any other such things happen.