When the class concluded, Ram and Geeta exited together. Curious, Geeta asked, "Ram, where did you study? You have such profound knowledge of data science."
Ram stared at her, prompting Geeta to quickly apologize. "I didn't mean to offend you. I have good grades too, but I can't compare to your level of understanding."
Ram replied calmly, "I learned everything from my uncle."
Geeta was about to inquire further when a group of rowdy boys entered the hallway. The leader of the group, Rahul, sneered, "So, you think you're smart in class, huh? Let's see just how smart you really are."
Geeta, frightened, tried to de-escalate the situation. "Rahul, Ram isn't my friend. He's just a new student. He doesn't know you. Please, don't hurt him." Her voice trembled as she spoke.
One of Rahul's friends mocked her, saying, "Oh, look, our cute Geeta has the nerve to talk back. Where did she get the courage?" The group erupted in laughter, heightening Geeta's anxiety.
Rahul turned to Ram with a taunting look. "You should've known about me when you entered this college."
Ram remained composed and asked, "What do you want?"
Rahul and his group smirked, demanding, "Just bow down, apologize, and beg for mercy."
Desperate, Geeta pleaded, "Rahul, please leave him alone! I'll bow down instead." The group continued to mock her, and one of the boys suddenly attempted to slap Geeta.
But before he could strike, Ram caught his hand in mid-air. Everyone was stunned. The boy struggled to free himself, but Ram's grip was too strong.
At that moment, Professor Ashok approached from the corridor. Sensing the professor's presence, Rahul's group quickly dispersed. Ram also noticed professor and released the boy's hand as they left, with Rahul issuing a warning, "We'll see you soon."
Still shaken, Geeta scolded Ram, "I told you to leave me alone, but you didn't listen!"
Ram gently interrupted her, "Don't worry. As long as I'm here, no one can hurt you."
Geeta tried to argue, but Ram reassured her, "Let's go to the cafeteria."
As they entered the cafeteria, Ram's presence drew the attention of several girls, who couldn't help but stare at him. Geeta noticed this and felt a bit flustered by the attention, but Ram remained indifferent. They collected their lunch and sat at a table together.
During their conversation, Geeta asked, "Where are you from?"
Ram replied, "I'm not from Mumbai. I came from a distant place, where very few people live."
Surprised but pleased, Geeta responded, "Don't worry, I'll help you with everything here."
As they continued talking, a group of senior students entered the cafeteria and kicked a student. They began harassing a student named Ali, who was quietly eating his lunch. They demanded that Ali serve them, claiming they needed someone to fetch drinks and other supplies for their football game. They said " How can a junior let his seniors die from thirst and hunger while eating and drinking himself. Is this a way a junior should respect seniors. Don't you have basic ethics."
Ali, trying to excuse himself, said, "I'm sorry, but I have classes to attend."
One of the seniors slapped him, snapping, "We didn't ask for your excuses."
Visibly scared, Ali agreed to help, trying to avoid further trouble.
Ram observed the situation and decided to intervene, but Geeta quickly held his hand back, warning him not to get involved.
Despite Geeta's warning, Ram approached Ali, who was still on the floor, and offered him a hand. Ali, shocked by the gesture, looked up and shouted, "Who are you? How dare you offer me help! I can get up on my own. Don't you see I'm helping our seniors? Don't interfere."
Turning to the seniors, Ali nervously said, "Senior brothers, please go to your game. I'll bring the drinks in a few minutes."
The seniors, satisfied with his response, left the cafeteria. As Ali gathered the drinks, Ram continued to watch him. Embarrassed, Ali snapped, "I don't want your sympathy. Just leave me alone!" He then hurried out with the drinks.
Geeta approached Ram and said softly, "Please don't mind him, Ram. Everyone here knows Ali. He's a decent guy who doesn't want anyone else to get hurt because of him. He was trying to protect you."
Thoughtful, Ram asked, "Why doesn't he report this?"
Geeta sighed, "They're Rishi's people. Rishi comes from a powerful and wealthy family, and even the principal doesn't have the courage to stand up to him. Because of Rishi, his group causes trouble for other students."
Ram remained silent, deep in thought. He knew he needed to carefully observe the environment and fully understand the situation before taking further action.