Wings of Heart

3. First Impressions

Haridas POV

As I stepped out of Kapoor’s office, my friends Pillai and Sudhir were waiting nearby, eager to hear about my meeting with the chief. Walking toward them, I couldn’t help but let a small smile slip, feeling oddly at ease after the conversation with Kapoor. They noticed my relaxed demeanor and their curiosity grew as they moved closer, ready to probe for details.

Pillai, always quick to voice his thoughts, was the first to ask, “So? What did the Chief want? He didn’t chew you out, did he?” His eyes gleamed with both concern and amusement, half expecting some story of reprimand.

“No, nothing like that,” I replied with a grin. “Actually, he asked me to tutor his daughter in math. Seems she’s struggling a bit with the subject, and he wants me to help her to get a good score.”

Pillai’s eyebrows shot up, and a mischievous smile spread across his face. “Oh, I’ve seen her around before,” he remarked. “She’s a real beauty—came here once when Kapoor took her to the Station Sick Quarters for a dental appointment.” He clapped me on the back, half-joking, “All the best, but don’t get any complaints about bothering her. One wrong move, and your career in the squadron could be in for a tough time!”

Sudhir, on the other hand, wasn’t as encouraging. He gave me a serious look and spoke in a low voice, “You know, Haridas, I’m not too sure this is a good idea. You’re aiming to be 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 for their daughter. Families like that have ways of pulling people in, especially when there’s potential for a good match. He knows for sure that you will become an officer soon.”

I listened but found myself dismissing his suspicions. It was one thing to be cautious, but quite another to turn down an honest request from a senior. Kapoor was asking for help, not trying to tie me into anything. I decided to follow through with the tutoring; after all, it was my duty to help others in need.

Later that evening, after tea was served by the orderly at four, I prepared to head out. I cleaned my bicycle, wiping away the dust and adjusting the seat so that I’d arrive looking presentable. Pillai was watching me, still smiling, as I got ready. I laughed off his last few jokes about my “big date” and finally set off toward Sadar Bazar, Kapoor’s directions clear in my mind.

As I pedalled through the streets, my thoughts wandered. Could I really teach this girl well enough to make a difference? Though I’d passed all my exams, 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 difficult questions? I didn’t want to end up looking like a fool in front of her; that would certainly get back to Kapoor and leave a dent in my reputation.

As I neared the area, the sun was beginning to dip, and the streetlamps flickered to life, casting a warm glow over the narrow lanes. But finding Kapoor’s house proved to be trickier than expected. I circled the block a few times, feeling like I’d missed something. Finally, I spotted it—house number 34, tucked away a bit from the main road, just as Kapoor had described.

When I glanced at my watch, I saw it was five minutes past five. Not terribly late, but I was still annoyed at myself for losing time. I stopped my bike, parked it to one side of the house, and pulled out my kerchief to wipe the sweat from my face and hands. Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I walked toward the door, determined to make a good impression.

I pressed the call bell but didn’t hear a sound. Figuring there might be a power outage in the area, I gently knocked on the door, not wanting to startle anyone inside. Moments later, the door opened, and there stood Kapoor, smiling warmly—an expression I rarely saw during our working hours. Perhaps, away from the stress of his duties, he could finally relax at home.

He gestured for me to come in, and as I stepped over the threshold, I took in the surroundings. The room was small but impeccably kept, every piece of furniture in its place, the walls adorned with simple yet tasteful decorations. It had a cozy warmth, giving the impression of a well-cared-for home.

Kapoor motioned me to sit on the couch opposite him and called to his wife, requesting a cup of coffee. “Make it hot,” he added with a chuckle, glancing at me. “Haridas here appreciates homemade drinks, don’t you?”

I smiled, nodding. Indeed, there was something uniquely comforting about coffee prepared at home, a taste and warmth no canteen or mess hall or could ever replicate.

As we settled in, a girl appeared from the hallway, carrying a tray with two cups of coffee. She must have been around sixteen or seventeen, dressed in a modest yet stylish salwar kameez. She had an easy grace as she approached, a soft smile lighting up her face. Her fair complexion, bright eyes, and a set of perfectly white teeth were accentuated by her smile, giving her a charming and friendly aura.

“This is Premlatha,” Kapoor said, watching me as he introduced her.

I glanced at her, taking in her appearance. She was a picture of youthful elegance—standing about five foot five, with a slim figure, and an effortless poise that made her appear confident. Her smile was warm and welcoming, making me feel immediately at ease.

“Hello,” I greeted her, smiling back, my voice gentle to match her own respectful demeanor.

Kapoor leaned slightly forward, explaining to her, “This is Haridas, the one I mentioned. He’ll be coming over to help you with math from now on.”

Premlatha nodded with a polite tilt of her head, her smile widening as she addressed me directly, “Good evening, sir.”

Her voice was soft yet clear, carrying an undertone of gratitude and respect. As she offered me a cup of coffee, I couldn’t help but appreciate the hospitality of the family. I took the cup with a grateful nod, taking a sip of the warm, fragrant coffee—a perfect blend, just strong enough to awaken the senses.

Kapoor took his cup and leaned back, seeming pleased with the setup. “Haridas,” he began, “Premlatha is in her twelfth year at the Central School, and she’s working hard. But, as I mentioned, math has been a bit of a struggle for her.”

Premlatha looked slightly embarrassed, her gaze dropping momentarily before meeting mine again with a shy but determined smile. It was clear she was earnest about improving, and that resolve spoke volumes.

“Don’t worry, Premlatha,” I said encouragingly. “I’m sure we can work through everything. Math is often challenging, but with the right approach, you’ll get it.”

She nodded, and a sense of relief crossed her face. Kapoor, visibly satisfied, looked from her to me. “We’re glad to have you help her, Haridas. She’s got dreams of becoming an engineer or perhaps even a doctor. This extra guidance will make a big difference.”

Finishing my coffee, I looked at Kapoor and Premlatha, feeling the weight of the responsibility. “I’ll do my best, Chief. I look forward to our sessions, Premlatha. We’ll make sure you’re ready for those exams.”

I paused briefly, not wanting to sound overly confident, and replied, "To my best efforts, I will be there for you." My voice carried a note of sincerity, emphasizing my willingness to help.

Her response was immediate, accompanied by a smile that seemed to light up the room.

"Thank you, sir," she said, her voice melodic and respectful. The sound was strangely soothing, and for a brief moment, I found myself captivated by her gaze. Her large, expressive eyes held a certain depth, and their gentle sparkle seemed to draw me in. I was momentarily lost in their charm, feeling both fascinated and slightly unnerved by the intensity of her natural beauty.

I snapped back to reality, realizing I needed to establish where the tuition sessions would be held. Before I could ask, Kapoor, perceptive as always, 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 separate study room. We've allocated her a small space of her own. That should suffice for your purpose. If there’s any inconvenience, let me know."

His humility caught me by surprise. This was the same Kapoor who, back at work, roared like a tiger at the slightest mistake on the tarmac. Here, in his home, he was calm, almost gentle, revealing a different side to his personality. I nodded appreciatively and thanked him.

Premlatha stood, gesturing for me to follow her to her room. As I rose, I sought Kapoor's approval, which he gave with a slight nod. I trailed behind 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 cot, a small table, and a chair. Despite its size, the room was immaculately maintained, with everything neatly arranged and no sign of clutter.

I hesitated for a moment, scanning the room to determine where I might sit. Premlatha seemed to notice my predicament and took the lead, gracefully seating herself on the cot. She then gestured towards the chair near the table and said respectfully, "Please, sir, have a seat."