Chapter 1 The Class
DATE:- 19 APRIL 2026
I was sitting at the very back bench of the classroom, mindlessly tapping a pen against my knuckles. Suddenly, my eyes caught the date written on the board. Just like that, the floodgates opened. Memories of my first true love came rushing back, completely taking over my mind.
I must have looked like I was miles away because Tanishq, a friend of mine sitting next to me, noticed.
"What happened?" he asked, glancing over.
I forced a wide smile and lied. "Nothing."
He gave a casual shrug and turned away, ignoring me just like he always did.
Tanishq is honestly one of the greatest friends I’ve ever made. The guy is tall, Black, and has one defining trait: he absolutely hates relationships. I never really understood why, but that’s just who he is. Right now, his entire life is hyper-focused on clearing the SATs so he can leave India. Marriage isn't even on his radar.
Even though I’d never deeply questioned him about it before, I always knew something was off. So, being the blunt guy that I am, I finally decided to prod. "What's your deal anyway? Why are you so against relationships and all that stuff? What, are you gay or something?"
Tanishq froze. He turned his head and looked straight at me.
The look in his eyes told me instantly that I had crossed a line. He looked offended enough to punch me straight in the nuts at any given second, so I instinctively covered my crotch with both hands. But as I braced for impact, I noticed something that completely caught me off guard.
A single tear escaped his eye and rolled down his cheek.
Yeah, I fucking know what people say—man up, dudes don't cry, all that bullshit. But honestly, let it be. This is my book and these are real emotions we're talking about.
Seeing him like that made a knot form in my stomach. I instantly felt a wave of worry wash over me. Just a minute ago, seeing the date on the board made me think this book would be entirely about my first love. But looking at my friend right now, I realize my own story is going to have to wait. I need to listen to what this fucker has to say first.
