Ram stepped onto the sprawling campus of one of Mumbai's largest and most prestigious colleges, known for its architectural grandeur and vibrant student life. As he walked across the expansive grounds, he couldn't help but notice the numerous admiring glances directed his way. His strikingly handsome features and confident demeanor had captured the attention of several girls, who tried to discreetly look his way. Even a few guys couldn't seem to take their eyes off him. As he passed through the busy corridors, a couple nearby was clearly distracted by his presence—the girl's gaze lingering on him, much to her boyfriend's irritation. The boyfriend's scolding was met with a mix of embarrassment and fury.
Ram made his way directly to the principal's office, where he was to meet Principal Dharmnath. As he approached the door, he overheard a heated conversation inside. A female teacher, Ms. Chandni, was voicing her frustrations to the principal.
"Sir, the ragging on campus has gotten out of hand," Ms. Chandni said, her voice tinged with concern. "Students are crossing boundaries, and even professors aren't spared from their disrespect. They're not just making life difficult for themselves but for everyone else too."
Principal Dharmnath, a man caught between the constraints of his position and the powerful families behind his students, responded with a resigned tone. "I'm aware of the situation, but these students come from influential backgrounds. Their families are highly respected and well-connected. I have limited power to discipline them without causing a backlash."
Ms. Chandni's frustration was evident. "So, we're just going to let them continue their disruptive behavior? They're affecting the academic environment for everyone."
Dharmnath sighed deeply. "I wish there was more I could do. The influence of their families is beyond my reach."
At that moment, Ram knocked and entered the office. Principal Dharmnath's face brightened upon seeing him.
"Ah, Ram! Perfect timing," Dharmnath said, visibly pleased. "This is Ms. Chandni, one of our esteemed faculty members. Chandni, this is Ram—our special admission with direct connections to the director."
Ms. Chandni's expression remained neutral as she acknowledged Ram with a nod. Clearly, she was not pleased to see another privileged student but maintained her composure and left the office.
"Ram, let me get your admission details sorted," Dharmnath said, handing him his ID card and enrollment documents. "You're enrolled in the Bachelor of Computer Applications program. You'll be meeting Mr. Ashok, the head of the BCA department, in C Block. He'll provide you with further details."
"Thank you, Principal Dharmnath," Ram said courteously before leaving the office.
As Ram navigated through the corridors towards C Block, a girl hurriedly ran past him, seemingly pursued by someone. In a swift, almost theatrical move, Ram caught her by the arm, preventing her from falling. The girl, momentarily stunned, looked up at Ram's face and was taken aback by his striking features.
"Are you alright?" Ram asked, his tone calm and reassuring.
The girl, slightly flustered, replied, "I'm sorry. I'm fine. It's my fault for not watching where I was going."
Ram smiled gently. "Don't worry about it. By the way, I'm looking for C Block. I need to meet Mr. Ashok in the BCA department."
The girl, still a bit flustered, responded, "I'm from the BCA department too. I can show you the way."
As they walked towards the office, Ram asked, "Why were you running?"
The girl's expression turned somber. "It's nothing, really. Just a misunderstanding."
At the door of the office, the girl pointed out Mr. Ashok's office. "This is Professor Ashok's office. He might be in there."
"Thank you for your help," Ram said with a warm smile.
The girl, blushing slightly, asked, "May I know your name?"
"Sorry, I didn't introduce myself. I'm Ram. And you are?"
"I'm Geeta," she replied. "I'm running late for my class, so I have to go."
"Okay, Geeta. Thanks again," Ram said as she hurried off.
Ram entered Professor Ashok's office to find the professor engrossed in a book. Despite his age, Ashok was an impressive figure—handsome and dignified. Ram introduced himself.
"Hello, Professor Ashok. I'm Ram, the new admission."
Ashok looked up and smiled warmly. "Welcome, Ram. I've been expecting you. Principal Dharmnath spoke highly of you. Here are the details of your subjects. You'll start attending classes today. If you need any assistance, feel free to come to me."
"Thank you, Professor Ashok," Ram said, accepting the documents. "I appreciate your help."
As Ram read through the details and made his way to his first class, he noticed some students causing a ruckus. Unfazed, he proceeded to find his seat next to Geeta, who was already there.
Geeta looked at Ram, visibly anxious. "I don't think sitting here is a good idea."
Ram, with a reassuring tone, responded, "If you're here, I'm here. Nothing will happen to you as long as I'm around."
Geeta, encouraged by Ram's words, nodded appreciatively. Just then, the professor entered, and the class began. Despite the noisy environment, Ram remained focused.
During the lecture, a student from the disruptive group threw a piece of chalk at Geeta. Ram, with a swift reflex, caught the chalk mid-air without looking. The action left the troublemakers astonished and confused.
"What happened?" Geeta asked, noticing Ram's calm demeanor.
"Nothing to worry about," Ram said, dismissing the incident as they continued with the lecture. The troublemakers, frustrated by their failed attempt, plotted their revenge.