ida

h the chief. Walking toward them, I couldn't help but let a small smile slip, feeling oddly at ease after the conversatio

hat did the Chief want? He didn't chew you out, did he?" His eyes gleame

d me to tutor his daughter in math. Seems she's struggling a bit w

auty-came here once when Kapoor took her to the Station Sick Quarters for a dental appointment." He clapped me on the back, half-joking, "A

an officer soon. That family might have other plans, knowing you're going places." He paused, casting a sidelong glance at me. "Think about it-they might be hoping to hook you in

r to turn down an honest request from a senior. Kapoor was asking for help, not trying to tie me into an

dust and adjusting the seat so that I'd arrive looking presentable. Pillai was watching me, still smiling, as I got ready. I

I couldn't help but wonder if I'd be able to answer all her questions and explain concepts clearly. What if she was quick-witted and stumped me with dif

ow lanes. But finding Kapoor's house proved to be trickier than expected. I circled the block a few times, feeling like I'd

r losing time. I stopped my bike, parked it to one side of the house, and pulled out my kerchief to wipe the sweat from

e door, not wanting to startle anyone inside. Moments later, the door opened, and there stood Kapoor, smiling warmly-an exp

room was small but impeccably kept, every piece of furniture in its place, the walls adorned with si

ife, requesting a cup of coffee. "Make it hot," he added with a chuckle

comforting about coffee prepared at home, a taste and

nteen, dressed in a modest yet stylish salwar kameez. She had an easy grace as she approached, a soft smile lighting up her face. Her

apoor said, watching m

nding about five foot five, with a slim figure, and an effortless poise that made her

g back, my voice gentle to mat

r, "This is Haridas, the one I mentioned. He'll

her head, her smile widening as she add

f coffee, I couldn't help but appreciate the hospitality of the family. I took the cup with a grateful

" he began, "Premlatha is in her twelfth year at the Central School, and she's

before meeting mine again with a shy but determined smile. It was c

sure we can work through everything. Math is often ch

from her to me. "We're glad to have you help her, Haridas. She's got dreams of becomin

ght of the responsibility. "I'll do my best, Chief. I look forward to

plied, "To my best efforts, I will be there for you." My voice

accompanied by a smile that

d myself captivated by her gaze. Her large, expressive eyes held a certain depth, and their gentle sparkle seemed to draw me i

ays, noticed my hesitation and spoke up. "You can sit in her room and continue the lessons," he said. "This house is small, and we don't have a se

a tiger at the slightest mistake on the tarmac. Here, in his home, he was calm, almost gen

hind her, walking through the narrow hallway until we reached a small room, about 5 feet by 7 feet. It was modest, just enough space for a single

to notice my predicament and took the lead, gracefully seating herself on the cot. She then