"The library is quite big," Anmay said, looking at the library building.
"Yes, and it's filled with books inside too," Mrigank agreed.
"I need to get a new library card," Mrigank told the librarian at the reception.
Anmay's gaze wandered around—shelves filled with books, a peaceful atmosphere, and just a few people like Sirin, were lost in the pages.
"Sure. Please fill out this form and submit it. The card will be ready in an hour. Meanwhile, you can look around at the library’s books," the librarian said, handing the form to Mrigank.
"Sounds good. Let's take a round and fill this form with Sirin," Mrigank said, taking the form.
"Where is Sirin anyway? I can't see him," Anmay asked, his eyes searching the rows of shelves. He glanced around, looking through the entire library.
"He's usually at the farthest seat; look, there he is," Mrigank said, pointing toward Sirin.
But Sirin was not alone; someone else was sitting with him, and they were deeply engrossed in a discussion.
"Who is Sirin so casually talking with? He was so quiet with us," Anmay said with mild surprise, seeing Sirin’s openness.
"Oh, that’s Divit. Come on, I’ll introduce you," Mrigank said, moving toward Sirin.
"Looks like they're planning the next meeting of the book reading club," Mrigank said, playfully patting Divit on the back.
"You in a library! Seems like you’ve lost your way. Come on, I’ll show you the exit," Divit joked with a laugh, then paused as he noticed an unfamiliar face.
"Meet him—this is my old friend and new classmate, Anmay. And Anmay, this is Divit. He’s studying BBA, but he and Sirin are members of the same book reading club, so we know each other," Mrigank introduced them.
"Hello! Nice to meet you, Anmay," Divit said, extending his hand.
"Same here," Anmay replied, shaking hands.
Sirin was busy making a list of books, seemingly detached from the conversation.
"Alright, let's get your form filled out," Mrigank said, taking a seat.
"Come on, Divit, the book list is done; now let’s work on the rest of the preparations," Sirin said, handing the list to Divit.
Anmay couldn’t help but notice the ease in Sirin’s smile - a warmth that hadn’t yet surfaced in their own conversations.
"Just hold on! We’re only filling out a one-page form here, not writing a biography," Mrigank said, rolling his eyes at Sirin.
"Yeah, Sirin, just five more minutes, and then we’ll all leave together," Anmay added.
"No problem," Sirin replied with a smile.
"By the way, what’s this book reading club of yours?" Anmay asked Sirin.
"Nothing much, just a small group of book lovers," Sirin replied in a low voice.
"Why don’t you join us for our meetup this Sunday?" Divit offered Anmay.
"Not this time, maybe next time," Anmay thought for a moment while filling out the form and replied.
"Alright, the form's done. Let's go submit it," Anmay said, glancing at Sirin.
The four of them headed toward the library reception.
"Divit and I will continue with the book club preparations now. Meanwhile, you must be off to explore Delhi," Sirin said with a laugh, teasing Mrigank.
"There’s a world outside books; you wouldn’t even know," Mrigank teased Sirin back.
"And you’re going to forget that world for today and help me with unpacking at my place. Mom’s been out of town for a week for a seminar, so I could use some help," Anmay said as he handed the form to the librarian.
"Within an hour, a digital card will be sent to your registered college number, and you can collect the physical card tomorrow," the librarian informed.
"Alright," Anmay replied, and the four stepped out of the library.
"Alright, now you two go your way, and we'll go ours," Mrigank said.
"Yeah, see you tomorrow," Sirin said, nodding a silent goodbye.
"See you, Anmay," Divit said, waving.
"Definitely," Anmay responded with a faint smile.
"Did you bring me anything from Dehradun, or did you come empty-handed?" Mrigank asked as he started his bike in the parking area.
"Oh, I brought Dehradun's most famous thing just for you," Anmay replied, teasingly.
"Oh really? What’s that special thing?" Mrigank asked eagerly.
"Dehradun’s most famous for... its snow," Anmay said with a laugh after a long pause.
"I’ll bury you in that snow! Just wait until we get home," Mrigank said, playfully punching Anmay on the back.
In the bustling city of Delhi, Sirin prefers the quiet comfort of his books over the complexity of human relationships. An introvert with a guarded heart, he is used to hiding his feelings—especially in a society where being different can be dangerous. When Anmay, an outgoing and warm-hearted classmate, steps into his life, Sirin starts feeling emotions he’s been too afraid to explore.
Eyes In The Skies is a heartfelt story of love, self-discovery, and the fear of living authentically in a world that isn’t always kind. As Sirin grapples with his growing feelings for Anmay, he faces the harsh reality of societal judgment, fearing rejection and the consequences of being true to himself. Torn between following his heart or staying hidden to protect himself, Sirin must make a choice: pursue his own happiness or live in the shadows of fear.
Comments (2)
See all