Your Loving Intern
Updated: Sep 25
Prologue
On a sunny morning, Meera, Rithika and I sat on my lawn to have tea. Every weekend after we completed our walk, we would reach our homes to have tea.
This week, it was my place and the climate was pleasant and both the kids left to play along with him in the indoor stadium.
One of the perks of being married to a businessman is that we could own a villa by the time we were forty years without the bank slips chasing us in our dreams.
After we settled in the chairs placed in our garden after the maid placed biscuits, a kettle of tea and cups, I couldn’t help but notice that Meera has lost a lot of weight.
She is no longer chubby and I couldn’t help but suspect that it was out of pressure. After all, she was running a failing art house.
The loan gets bigger every passing month and she is losing her clients but I cannot help but blame her. It is due to her stubbornness that new clients are not signing up and her approved category of art isn’t acceptable to many.
Rithika on the other hand is now leading her own team and cannot be even reached during weekly days.
We have been lucky to patch up after our last fight because of me but instead of telling you why we fought, let me rather tell the story. That would anyway explain the reason.
Picking up her tea cup from the white table after settling in a chair, Meera enquired, “So have you given any thought to our suggestion?”
It was her idea that I should write my story during my bachelors’ internship. Pouring myself some tea, I replied, “Yes. I have decided not to write it.”
I could see Rithika sliding her feet on the trimmed grass as she questioned, “Can we assume you don’t want to relive your foolishness?”
She did have a point however, I couldn’t accept her statement. However, before I spoke, Meera mentioned, “Imagine her children skimming through her love story. That would be a wonderful sight.”
All of us laughed before I turned to the Meera to mention, “It isn’t a love story. You all should know that.”
Honestly, it wasn’t. It wasn’t even a concrete story but I cannot deny that I had feelings for him and even hoped to lead a life with him before even trying to know what that meant.
Like many stories, he was my super senior and by the time I signed up for college, he signed out. However, I got to meet him due to his internship interviews.
Ratan Industries in which I currently work, usually hired interns from colleges and interviews were conducted for eligible students.
The first time I saw him was when he was speaking to us about the company before the interview started. He was tall, muscular, brown in skin tone and had curly hair bouncing every time he moved.
I had no idea he was our super senior until he confessed he was on the other side of the table a few years ago. He spoke confidently and his introduction about students getting to know how the industry functioned got me interested to know how he became so confident with a degree from our college.
So coming back, following my statement, Meera teased, “So says the girl who fought to earn a job in the same company just to meet him and express her feelings.”
Picking up a chocolate cookie, I confessed, “I thought he was the one... I was wrong... So what do you want me to do now? Write about it?”
Nodding indicating yes, Rithika replied, “I think many girls out there have chosen their life partners without having a clue as to what it means. Your story might help them or it might not. Let them judge it. All we are asking is to just write it.”
I honestly accept the idea but writing all of it would be so much and too little could be told if I start filtering the content. So I mentioned, “It’s so much to write. I cannot do this.”
While enjoying the early morning sun’s rays touching her white oval face, Rithika replied, “It’s simple then. Pick up a few incidents which you deem worthy and write them.”
Following her suggestion, Meera nodded in agreement too. I seriously didn’t understand why they were forcing me so much but if I did write, it could be the only way.
However, my curiosity made me ask, “Why don’t you guys write your story? I’m sure there is a good story there too.”
Before Meera even could respond, Rithika started laughing. Observing me, Rithika a moment later answered, “Write about my jealousy and her absolutely well-worked story? What’s in them to write about?”
With a smile, Meera continued, “Even your story becomes stale the moment my brother pops into the equation. Pretty much another love story.”
Pouring herself some more tea, Rithika suggested, “Apart from your love life Meera, what else can you write about?”
Her suggestion immediately made me point out, “That is exactly what I would love to write about too.”
I honestly don’t want to relive what happened and yes they have a fair point but this isn’t something that would change a person from her core. It would at best be a wake-up call.
A teenager who has everything but still believes that she has too little and took a lot of irrational decisions isn’t a story I wish to tell to my readers but that’s who I was and this is exactly that story I’m going to tell you.
You have been warned, ladies and gentlemen.
Staring at me, Meera mentioned, “You have more to offer Naina. Compared to me, a lot more to offer.”
Thinking about it for a few moments, I replied, “I agree. I might have been through a few interesting incidents but why should my story be told?”
Finishing her second round of tea, Rithika replied, “Reality Naina. Bittersweet reality. That’s why we have been insisting you write your story.”
Continuing Rithika’s explanation, Meera added, “Imagine how many of them could learn from your experiences.”
I could understand their intention but I want to offer something different. So let’s get started, my friend.
Now that I have told you why I wrote this book, let me also tell you that every chapter in this book is an incident from my life and with a few incidents, I would like to tell you what you could learn from me.
My name is Naina and you are about to read my story which I’d like to call ‘Your Loving Intern.’
I: Unexpected Meeting
As the sun woke up, I picked up my luggage before saying, “Goodbye mom.”
She held my hand affectionately before reminding me, “Eat healthy food and make sure you eat on time.”
Assuring her that I would, I sat on the back seat of Rithika’s scooter. On our journey to the bus stop, Rithika said, “It seems to me that I will be missing a lot of fun.”
Holding my heavy bag, I replied, “You have had enough fun last summer during your internship Rithika. Anyway, we won’t be able to enjoy as much as you computer science students do.”
Defending her field of study, Rithika replied, “There is more to computer science than a laptop and luxurious office environment Naina.”
Though I wanted to disagree, I remained silent. The cold breeze made me want to sleep again. As we reached the bus stop, Rithika wished me before I boarded my bus, “Safe journey Naina. Either call or message me when you reach.”
Nodding my head in acceptance, I boarded the bus to travel from Konchi to Jamelpur. Settling down, I recalled my college trip. As soon as my journey began, the bus conductor started distributing water bottles.
While I took a bottle, I noticed the Sun’s rays touching me through the closed window. I opened the window to embrace the sunrise and welcome the fresh air.
A moment later, I pulled out my earphones from the handbag to listen to my usual playlist. While listening to music, the only thought that lingered in my mind was, “What would our supervisor say as my friends and I are late by two days.”
A few moments later I started thinking about the reason why I had to undergo this internship in the first place. Later, I started blaming myself for the decision to do engineering in the first place. If truth be told, I honestly never wanted to be an engineer, but in reality, was given no other option by my mother.
Regarding my internship, it was forced by the college curriculum that every student must do an internship before completing their course. As I kept wondering about various issues in my life, the cold air and the pleasant climate made me fall asleep.
A few hours later, I got up as the bus driver announced, “In a few moments, we would reach Jamelpur central bus stop.”
Picking up my luggage, I called Meera after reaching the Jamelpur bus stop. She answered my call, “I am waiting in the two-wheelers parking area.”
Looking up directions, I reached the parking area to see Meera waving her hand. As soon as I reached her, she asked, “So how was your journey?”
Placing my luggage on her scooter, I replied, “I don’t remember. Was asleep during the journey.”
She chuckled before starting her scooter. As the scooter turned on, she exclaimed, “You should have come with me two days ago Naina but you refused. You said you wanted to spend more time with your mother.”
Sitting in the back seat, I replied, “My mother would kill me if I left as soon as my holidays were declared.”
She grinned before mentioning, “I have asked my mother to cook chicken for dinner. So a delicious dinner awaits us!”
As much as I wanted to thank her, I couldn’t. Meera is like family. I have never hesitated in sharing my secrets with her, and honestly, I am blessed to have Meera and Rithika in my life.
As the sun bid goodbye and the moon took its shift, both of us reached Meera’s place in twenty minutes. As I entered her home, Meera’s mother was waiting for us. Looking at me, aunty said, “So you are Naina! Finally, I get to see you after three years.”
While I smiled, aunty continued by saying, “You guys freshen up. Meanwhile, I would set up the table for dinner.”
As I walked in, I saw Shiva playing cricket on his PlayStation. This was the first time I have met him in person. He was Meera’s twin brother. Taking my luggage and placing it in Meera’s room, I took a shower and was all set for dinner.
As soon as I arrived at the dining table, I could see that dinner was already served. Noticing the delicious-looking chicken, I sat beside Meera and both of us started eating.
The chicken was perfectly cooked. It was more than what I was expecting. Meanwhile, I could hear aunty instructing Shiva to join us. Finishing his game, he walked to the dinner table. While Shiva started eating his dinner for some reason he was looking at me once in a while. Honestly, I felt impressed.
A moment later, he said, “Hello, I am Shiva.”
I replied back by saying, “Hello my name is Naina.”
With a smile on his face, Shiva said, “My sister talks a lot about you when she is here.”
Not bothering about what Meera told him, I asked, “Are you a student Shiva?”
Since his mouth was stuffed with food, he could not talk clearly. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Meera sarcastically added, “My talented twin is currently completing his MBA.”
After swallowing his chicken, Shiva exclaimed, “At least your talented twin is punctual unlike you.”
Both of us could not say a word back. Meanwhile, Meera’s mother arrived from the kitchen and offered more chicken. Feeling full, I refused. Following my refusal, aunty remarked, “How will you be able to work if you don’t eat enough food?”
I just smiled, not knowing what to say. As soon as we finished our dinner, we went to Meera’s room. Shiva helped his mother in the kitchen and later brought me an extra pillow and blanket. However, before I could thank him, he had already left.
We took selfies making weird faces after Meera closed the door and turned on her music player. With the music on, no one could stop us. Both of us danced until we got tired. Looking into the mirror, we felt bad about the pimples on our faces and the body fat we had accumulated.
In the end, before lying down on the bed, as always we talked about the qualities we expected in our husbands. As soon as we slept beside each other, Meera said, “I wish my Heat and Mass Transfer paper would be cleared.”
I was too tired to even ask for anything and soon enough we both fell asleep. The next day, Meera woke up at 8 a.m., got ready and woke me up. Both of us were ready by 9:30 a.m. Since the reporting time was 10 a.m. every day, we started to have our breakfast which was just four bread slices with jam.
Meera called Alokya and Neel instructed them to join us at the front gate. Finally, we started travelling on Meera’s scooter and reached Ragan Industries ten minutes early. At the entrance, we were asked by the guards to show our IDs and internship approvals.
After the documents were verified, we were asked to report to Mr Yugandhar. Looking up directions to reach his cabin, all four of us walked through the well-gardened area of the company.
Within a short span of time, all four of us reached Mr Yugandhar’s cabin. Staring at us, he asked us, “So you are the interns who wish to join late?”
Meera replied, “Yes sir.”
He then asked, “Did you guys bring a letter from your principal justifying your reason for the delay?”
I immediately replied, “Do we need that?”
He laughed before saying, “Do you think we would let you join late without a valid written reason? Honestly, you guys can leave if you don’t have the letter.”
While all of us heard him, Neel asked, “But we weren’t informed about this sir?”
Looking at Neel, Yugandhar stated, “I’m sorry but you won’t be starting your internship without the letterhead.”
I got frustrated since it wasn’t our mistake. However, considering the complete internship, this wasn’t even the beginning. I would say it was just a hiccup.
II: Love At First Sight?
Dejected on being rejected, all four of us exited the room. Thinking about what we could do, Neel came up with an idea.
Looking at the rest of us, he said, “Hey girls, I have a plan. It might help us attend the internship after all.”
Curious to know his idea, Meera asked, “Alright Neel. What is your plan?” As the rest of us paid attention, Neel stated, “We can ask one of our friends to meet our principal and seek the attested letter through him.”
All the six mascara-clad eyelashes rose to point at Neel. Relaxed listening to Neel’s idea, our eyes slowly lit up.
Meanwhile, Neel continued by saying, “We could later ask our friend to send us a scanned copy.”
Before he completed his sentence, all the rosy lipstick-smeared lips went berserk shouting, “Our internship isn’t cancelled!”
All of us appreciated Neel for his presence of mind. It took us a few hours to get the attested letter through one of our friends and everyone felt rejuvenated since the situation was back in our control.
Together, we entered Yugandhar’s chamber again to submit the attested letter that we had obtained.
Reading the letter, Yugandhar stated, “The letter says, since your semester exams have been postponed, you are starting your internship a few days late.”
All of us nodded before Yugandhar said, “That seems like a valid reason. However, this letter doesn’t seem like a valid one.”
I was personally tired. Even after everything we had done, we weren’t permitted. Staring at me, Yugandhar said, “This is a scanned letter. For submission, we will need a real document.”
After a moment of silence, Neel wanted to say something but interrupting him, Yugandhar said, “However, since you have submitted the necessary documentation, for now, I will permit you to start your internship.”
All of us were elated when he mentioned, “Still, I would need the original letter within a week. Failing to submit, I would have no other choice but to cancel your internship.”
While all of us nodded our heads agreeing with Mr Yugandhar, Meera said, “Thank you, sir. Thank you very much.”
Placing our letter in a form, Yugandhar instructed, “You would start your internship at the Welding Department. Enquire its location and report to the department as soon as you can.”
Walking back to the guards near the entrance, we enquired about the directions for the Welding Department. As we walked ahead, I could feel the shade of the trees and the cool breeze striking me which was both relaxing and comforting.
The feeling of excitement was creeping into all of us as we entered the Welding Department’s administrative office. Right at the reception, we were greeted with a smile by Ajay Singh.
He said, “Mr Yugandhar just called. Are you the students who’ve come late for the internship?”
As Meera replied, “Yes sir,” he smiled.
Looking at Neel, Ajay Singh instructed, “The person you have to meet is Mr Vimal Deshpande. You will find him in Room No. 13.”
While I thanked him, he mentioned, “Please be polite and patient. I hope you guys have a wonderful time.”
Feeling welcome, we started looking for Room No.13, as we walked into the corridor with rooms on either side. As soon as we found the room, we could see the door wide open. Only God knew what lay in store for us.
Standing near the door, Alokya sought permission to enter the room. I could see a middle-aged man with a clean-shaven face and military hairstyle sitting in his chair behind a huge desk, working. He was too busy to even shoot a glance at us. Ten minutes had passed by and we were still waiting for his attention.
I was tired. Especially, by the way, the officials in the company were treating us. Unable to take it any longer, I knocked on the door before saying, “Excuse me, sir. Can we please come in?”
Even though there was a hindrance from my friends, I felt it was pointless to be waiting near the door.
Looking at me now, Deshpande replied, “Yes. Please come in.”
As we stood before him, he started working again. While continuing to write, he asked, “Can one of you please tell me the duration of your internship?”
Looking at the rest of us remaining silent, Neel replied, “Thirty days sir.”
Placing his pen aside, Deshpande asked, “And what do you guys want to do in these thirty days?”
Considering the question to be pointless, Alokya replied, “Acquire knowledge about all the departments in this plant sir.”
Controlling his smile, Deshpande exclaimed, “Don’t you think it is a short period of time to be able to comprehend everything that is done in this industry?” Again, silence prevailed.
Staring at us being silent, Deshpande instructed, “So since today’s working hours are almost done and I have got some work to complete, take a look at the manuals on the bookshelf. They explain the operations in the Welding Department, try to comprehend the uses.”
Relieved of being assigned no work, all of us left the chamber after Alokya and Meera thanked Deshpande.
I honestly didn’t want to read manuals but it wasn’t my place to object to instruction and before long, we were permitted to leave.
The next day, Deshpande instructed us to continue reading the manuals. He stated, “I don’t think you guys have spent enough time reading the manuals. So take a few hours today to continue reading them.”
As instructed, we started reading the manuals one after another, but almost all of us reached a point where we couldn’t continue. Reading them was so tiresome.
I will admit that none of us expected novels but at the least, we hoped these manuals would be a bit more interesting. To add to this all of us were hungry and it was way past lunchtime.
Just then, Mr Ajay Singh came into our room. He was smiling as usual when he asked, “Hey kids, still reading? You guys are doing a wonderful job!”
I smirked looking at my manual not understanding how to respond. Meanwhile, Meera nudged me intending to tell me that Mr Singh was staring at me.
Continuing his smile, Ajay Singh said, “Looking at your grim faces I can presume that you are tired. I guess you are hungry.”
As soon as he mentioned the word ‘hungry’, energy spilt out from within us. Clapping his hand, Ajay Singh said, “So please take a break and get back to the office by 3 p.m.”
All four of us left as soon as we could. Though the canteen was located far away, our hunger made us rush. As we walked, I couldn’t help but wonder, “How could forty-five minutes be enough to travel, eat and return?”
Though I wanted to mention it to my friends, I just stayed silent not wanting to start a discussion. As soon as we reached the canteen, I checked my watch to see the time which was already 2:30 p.m.
While Meera and Neel brought four meals from the counter, Alokya and I reserved a table for the four of us. Tasting the half-boiled potato curry and oily eggplant curry, Meera and Alokya vowed to not eat lunch in the canteen ever again.
Personally, I didn’t care. I hoped to satisfy my hunger no matter how the food tasted. Finished my lunch within fifteen minutes, and all of us waited for Neel.
Meanwhile, I happened to see a very thin and lean guy standing beside the counter, looking at me. I shrugged him off and left within the next five minutes. By the time we reached back, it was already 3:15 p.m.
Though we were again greeted with a smile by Ajay Singh, as soon as we entered Mr Deshpande’s cabin, he shouted, “What were you guys doing in the canteen for so long?”
Surprised by the way he was shouting at us, all four of us remained silent. Meanwhile, Deshpande continued by saying, “You are not done with the work I have assigned you guys. Don’t take advantage of our leniency.”
While I wondered, “Leniency? Is he high?”
He continued, “Now get back to your work and complete reading the manuals. Report to me within an hour!”
Settling back in our places, we started reading the reports. I could see Meera and Alokya trembling due to Deshpande’s sudden outburst. Though I couldn’t really understand why I played along.
Continuing to read, I spent the next half hour hating myself and the whole purpose of the internship. When I started thinking about who was the cause of all this, I couldn’t help but redirect all my anger towards Mr Vimal Deshpande. Deciding to end my troubles, I walked to the adjacent room’s entrance and knocked on the door.
Looking at me, Deshpande questioned, “I’ve told you to complete reading right?”
Not knowing my intentions, my friends put aside their manuals and rushed towards me. Without even entering his cabin, I asked, “I was wondering if you would teach us something?”
Listening to my question, Deshpande smiled before replying in his stern tone, “Maybe I would. However, you must complete your assignment before expecting something from me.”
Unable to listen to his stupid reasoning, I replied, “What’s the use of reading the manual sir? We have come to the industry to learn about the operations and working of the machines. If you aren’t teaching the operation of tools, or in the worst case, if you are not even showing us the instruments, I don’t see the point of us doing an internship.”
Putting his pen aside and looking at me, Deshpande replied, “I’m sure you would be shown the instruments in the coming days and in reality, they would be no different than your illustrations in textbooks.”
Supporting my argument, Neel mentioned, “But sir our internship is just for thirty days. We are currently finishing our second day without learning anything in terms of practical knowledge. Do you think this is fair?”
Standing up from his chair and walking towards his bookshelf, Deshpande replied, “I am not the one calling a tour an internship student. Either your college or our company doesn’t really understand the difference between an industrial tour and an internship.”
Hoping for a change, I asked, “Blaming a company or university isn’t going to help us, sir. Please let us learn something during our stay here.”
Settling back in his chair, Deshpande replied, “If you want to do an internship, continue reading the reports. If you want to take a tour, I would say, you are dealing with the wrong person.”
Unable to bear him any longer, I left. My friends followed me. Just while passing by Mr Singh’s desk, I saw a person standing before the Welding Department. He was in his mid-twenties probably, tall and muscular with a perfect jawline. He looked like a film star. He was so handsome that words couldn’t describe him.
I was mesmerized by checking out this mighty and muscular guy. The smile on his face was like an ornament to a woman’s bare neck. I could feel my surroundings suddenly become magical and then… SNAP!
I was brought back to my senses when Ajay Singh said, “Cool it down, students. Mr Vimal Deshpande is just brutally honest.”
With a smile on his face, Neel replied, “We have noticed sir. That’s why we fed Deshpande sir with some of his own medicine.”
Controlling his smile, Ajay Singh continued by saying, “Don’t worry students. I will arrange a meeting with Mr Pratap in the Shells Department tomorrow. Is that ok?”
Though I could hear Mr Ajay Singh speak, I didn’t pay attention. I wondered, “Is this feeling called love?”
While Meera replied, “Thank you, sir. It would be really helpful.”
Alokya looked at me for a few moments before asking me, “Are you blushing?”
Not wanting to be caught, I thanked Mr Ajay Singh and started walking without answering Alokya.
III: Intern’al Blush
On my way back home, I was lost in my thoughts. I kept asking myself, “Why does he seem so attractive? Is it because he possesses everything I ever hoped for? Or is it because no one I have ever seen is at least half charming as he is?”
Even after reaching home, nothing seemed to bother me. Neither the neighbour’s barking Pomeranian nor the whistle of the pressure cooker. Putting my bag aside, I took a shower.
As soon as I exited the washroom, Meera snapped her fingers before asking me, “Naina, what is wrong with you?”
Surprised by her question, I replied, “Nothing! Why do you ask?”
Settling down in her study chair, Meera pointed out, “Are you hypnotized?”
For some reason, I didn’t like her intervention in my dreams, at least not yet. Absentmindedly, I asked, “What’s the matter Meera?”
Staring at me, she mentioned, “I never knew all these years that you took a shower with your clothes on.”
As much as it sounded crazy, that is exactly what just happened. I was so immersed in my daydreaming that I didn’t even care to observe my clothes were still on me. Looking at me, Meera laughed.
Changing my clothes, I lay on my bed. Getting back to my questions, I asked myself again, “What is this feeling called? Is it love? Is it infatuation? Is it an attraction?”
A few hours later, Meera called me for dinner. When I returned after dinner to our room, I took out my diary and headed to the balcony, sitting in Meera’s rocking chair and cherishing the cold night lit by moonlight. I took a deep breath before opening my diary. In the first page of it, I had written a year ago.
“While the two souls cherish the graces of the eternal moon. While their thoughts are cleansed by the waves and the cold air thickens their affection. They shall become forever one.”
I adored poetry and whenever I had time, I wrote a few poems and stories in my diary. It was a way to express my intense feelings. In a way, I believed that these poems defined who I was. Opening a new page, I wrote with my black ink pen as always:
“Love has never been as dominant on me as it has been today and my thoughts have never been so confusing. I know I am dumb and I know no one could not be more foolish. Honestly, I don’t even know the difference between infatuation and attraction, nor do I know if they are both the same. But I know one thing, from this moment, he is mine. No matter what, he is mine and nothing would please me more than me being his.”
I stopped for a moment and wondered if he would accept me. The very thought of proposing to him made me fearful. I couldn’t imagine being heartbroken and becoming a person who embraces the darkness. I prayed to the Gods that such a day shouldn’t arrive.
Within the next few moments, I fell asleep in the rocking chair as the clock ticked away for the next 6 hours. When I woke up, I could feel the gentle red rays with mild heat touching me.
Looking at the sun waking up, I picked up my phone and called Neel. As soon as he answered the call, he drowsily asked me, “Hello… What’s the matter Naina?”
Looking at the red ball in the sky, I exclaimed, “The Sun looks radiant Neel. I think he is waiting for you to take a snap. Maybe you should wake up and capture him before he goes wild.”
Fed up, Neel shouted, “Rithika just called me to say good morning. Honestly will my day change because of her wishes? And now you are instructing me to take pictures of the Sun? Will you girls let me sleep!”
Finishing his sentence, he cut the call. Putting my phone back in my pocket, I thought, “Apparently Rithika keeps him busy.”
When the time was 7:30 a.m., I woke Meera up. I dressed up in a white kurta with a peacock blue-edged border complimenting it with a peacock blue dupatta. I added my own touch of beauty to my face with kajal to my black eyes, wearing bangles and nice gold jhumkas.
We started our third day at the Shells Department. On reporting, we were asked to meet Mr Pratap. As we reached Pratap’s chamber, I was awestruck by seeing him.
Looking at my Prince Charming speaking to Mr Pratap, I wondered, “Could the day start any better?”
As I looked at him, my eyes moved all around but came back to the same point again and again. Finishing his discussion, my Prince Charming left soon enough and looking at us, Mr Pratap smiled before saying, “Hello students. Let me welcome you to Ragan Industries. I’m Pratap Malhotra and today, let’s tour around the Shells Department.”
All of us were so relieved when we heard Mr Pratap. For the first time since our arrival, it felt like our internship had begun. Exiting the chamber, we headed to the shell workshop.
As we entered, all of us were amazed looking at the huge dome. The workshop was so huge that Alokya exclaimed, “Everyone in my village can be accommodated here.”
Most of the employees wore orange shirts with fluorescent stripes while some of them wore formal with either white or blue caps. I presumed the colour of their caps represented their ranking.
While looking around, we were given caps after we submitted our bags near the entrance. Waiting for us until we took our caps, Pratap stated, “This is the complete Production Department and in my opinion, it is the heart of the industry. Maybe because the end products are manufactured here.”
As we walked, we could hear alarms signalling the timings in order to inform the workers about their shifts. We could see so many workers draining their energy continuously to manufacture a product. Stopping by at every step, Pratap explained the work. His explanation was so fabulous that time passed off without us noticing. Later, I honestly felt that every mechanical engineer must visit one such workshop. Maybe it isn’t often that students get to see their theoretical knowledge being practically implemented.
As soon as the clock ticked 12:30 p.m., Pratap sent us to eat our lunch. He was even kind enough to ask us to return by 2 p.m.
Feeling glad about the change of supervisor, Neel and I headed to the canteen to eat lunch while Alokya and Meera stayed back eating snacks.
As we ate our lunch, I could see the weird-looking guy who was thin, and fair with a shaved head staring at me while he stood near the counter. Eating his food, Neel could see me feeling uncomfortable. Hoping to help, he asked, “Is everything alright?”
I hesitantly replied, “Yes.”
Though my answer didn’t convince him, he just stayed silent. He even saw me looking at the guy near the counter.
After lunch, we spent the next few hours touring the workshop. By the time it was 6 p.m., Meera and I reached home.
Honestly, I loved Meera’s family. Every activity throughout the day was well planned and executed, unlike in my home. As soon as we finished eating dinner, Meera and her mother visited their family friends while I stayed back hoping to spend some time all by myself. Resting in my rocking chair, I skimmed through the WhatsApp chats and Facebook news feed. Before I started writing my diary, I fell asleep.
Day 4: Dear Diary, Everywhere I go, the first thing I do is search for him. But my Prince Charming was nowhere to be found. However, we still had fun!
Day 14: Dear Diary, Interacted with Mr Pankaj in the Press Shop and our tour of his department was amazing. However, Mr Pankaj’s communication skills were terrible. There wasn’t even a moment when we could stop ourselves from laughing. On a side note, I still couldn’t find him.
Day 18: Dear Diary, Our tour in the Production Department has almost come to an end. However, my search for Prince Charming isn’t successful. Trust me, I am starting to wonder if he is an employee of this company. Maybe he is not because he is nowhere to be found.
Day 20: Dear Diary, I have never been stalked in my life. This weird guy (weirdo) is making me feel uncomfortable during lunch every day. No one has ever bothered me except him to date. I wish my internship comes to an end as neither my heart nor my thoughts remain peaceful. On a side note, I will be meeting Mr Pratap to enquire about our plan for the next ten days since our tour in Production House is complete.
The next day at 10:15 a.m., Meera and I visited Mr Pratap. Knocking on his chamber door, I asked, “Sir, can we come in?”
Looking at us, Pratap instructed, “Come in girls!”
As we entered, Pratap asked, “So tell me. How is your tour in the Production House going?”
Looking at his chubby cheeks, I replied, “We’ve almost finished visiting all the departments’ sir. We want further instructions.”
Recalling the names of various departments, Pratap curiously asked, “Did your team visit the Heat Exchangers Department?”
Thinking about it for a moment, Meera replied, “No sir. Not yet.”
Clapping his hand in excitement, Pratap said, “It’s settled then. You’ll be visiting the Heat Exchangers Department next.”
While both of us nodded in agreement, Pratap mentioned, “Thank you, girls, for visiting me on the weekend. Especially for such a short meeting.”
While I just smiled, Meera replied, “Not at all a problem sir. We wish you a happy journey.”
Coming back home on Meera’s scooter, we ate lunch in our room while watching Frozen. On Monday, all four of us visited the Heat Exchangers Department.
As soon as we entered, kaboom there he is, my Prince Charming. Looking at him, I cursed myself for not getting dressed up. However, I never expected to meet him during my internship anyway.
He wore a light blue shirt and black pants. His attire matched with his body’s shape and he had neatly trimmed his facial hair along his strong jawline. He wore a fat metal wristwatch and his face held a charming smile.
After introducing himself to us and getting to know our names, he explained to us everything about the department and honestly, not a word went into my head.
I kept watching him and time just faded like never before. His silky hair and sweet voice held my heart and I was honestly his captive, bound by love. Within no time, he instructed us to take a lunch break and as usual, Neel and I went to the canteen while Meera and Alokya had their lunch boxes.
Taking our food at the counter, we settled down. I was so happy that I met him finally and would get to spend the next ten days with him. As I ate my food, I could see the Weirdo staring at me. This time, as soon as I started eating, the weirdo walked to me and sat in the chair facing me.
The first sentence that the thin pale guy said was, “Naina, you look absolutely beautiful.”
While Neel and I were shocked, the weirdo continued saying, “Would you like to join me for a cup of coffee?”
I wondered, “What does he think of himself? How dare he ask me to join him for coffee after intimidating me for weeks?”
Meanwhile, Neel replied, “If I were you, I would leave right now.”
Looking at Neel as he sat beside me, the weirdo replied, “Back off. I’m waiting for the charismatic girl’s response.”
Following the weirdo’s sentence, I shouted, “No!”
To which he right away asked, “But why?”
Though I had many reasons to tell him, I preferred to teach him a lesson. I held Neel’s hand before exclaiming, “Because he is my boyfriend and you are going to be punished for the inconvenience you have caused me the last two weeks.”
As soon as I finished, Neel played along and hit the weirdo so hard on his face that he crashed on the table. While everyone in the canteen was staring at us, I warned the weirdo by saying, “Never trouble a girl ever again!”
IV: Adios!
That afternoon we read manuals again since Pratap sir was busy guiding his subordinates. Utilising the free time, I told Meera how Neel hit the weirdo and as usual Alokya didn’t pay much attention. When we reached home, I rested in the rocking chair and started writing in my diary. Opening a new page, I wrote:
Dear Diary, Why am I secretly biting my lower lip when I think about him? Why is that I am immersed in ecstasy when he is around?Why is it that I imagine him to be my prince? Why do I feel his blue eyes as my paradise? Well, the only thought I get when I close my eyes is both of us running on the shore while the sun’s rays rejuvenate us and I embrace him after I get tired. He is the one I never expected to have as my partner but life never seemed more simple and beautiful. Prince Charming, I love you!
Immediately after writing down my thoughts, I couldn’t help but recall the weirdo. I honestly felt he deserved the punch Neel gave him.
The next morning, I woke up early and got ready while Meera was still asleep. After I finished dressing up, I woke Meera up and she was shocked looking at me being ready to go.
As we reached the Heat Exchangers Department, my eyes were set on him. They cherished looking at him in a new attire every day. I stood mesmerised as he greeted us.
As he explained, his voice was a big part of his charming beauty and I felt his elegant clothing always made him appear younger. I was so lost in observing him that I couldn’t see Meera staring at me.
That evening when we reached home, Meera asked, “Naina, what was going on with you today?”
I smiled.
Surprised, Meera stated, “So what I expected is true?” I nodded in agreement.
Sitting down in her study chair, Meera asked, “Explain to me how is it that you like an employee whom you have known for a few days?”
Lying on my bed, I hesitantly replied, “I call it love at first sight!”
I could clearly see that she wasn’t convinced. Explaining myself, I continued by saying, “I never knew what love meant until I saw him for the first time. It was an avalanche of affection and nothing attracted me like this ever before.”
While Meera didn’t wish to believe my words, I concluded by saying, “I have finally found my eternal lover.”
Unable to bear my foolishness, Meera shouted, “You are being insane!”
The smile on my face faded while Meera continued by saying “I’m sorry but what is the difference between you and that weirdo?”
I couldn’t believe what she just asked.
A moment later, Meera stated, “This weirdo stalked you and you are stalking sir. If you honestly feel that this weirdo deserves a beating for what he has done to you, so do you. I see no difference.”
Unable to defend myself, I shouted “Stop!”
Not holding back, Meera continued by saying, “Maybe I must appreciate the weirdo. At least he knew your name. On the other hand, you don’t even possess a single detail about our sir.”
When I thought about it, I couldn’t agree more. Meanwhile, Meera continued by saying, “You are referring to him as your eternal lover but unfortunately you don’t even know his name.”
Though I wanted to defend myself, I couldn’t speak a word. She was right. Just like the weirdo, I kept searching for him in every department because I was attracted to him.
Looking at me, Meera said, “Naina, I’m sorry if I hurt you. At the same time, I beg you to please not cover up your lunacy by adding cheesy words like an eternal lover or love at first sight.”
I realised she was trying to help me. Though she was pessimistic, I honestly felt she was trying to help me. Sitting before her, I mentioned, “But my mind says he is the one.”
Pitying my ignorance, Meera said, “Our mind is a mad monkey Naina. We shouldn’t hang on to it. We shouldn’t ruin our lives listening to everything it suggests.”
While I was trying to comprehend Meera’s statement, she continued by saying, “Stories embedded with hard truths are always deemed worthy because they teach us what life means. On the other hand, fantasies make us relish our wildest dreams. But hoping for a fantasy to become our reality isn’t always a wise wish to make. I hope you don’t make one such wish.”
For a few moments, both of us were silent. Though her words were hurting, it takes a lot of courage, to tell the truth, and live up to it. Walking to the balcony, I took my place in the rocking chair while Meera left.
Looking at the serene blue sky, I decided to leave my fate to destiny. Honestly, that is what most of us do when we have no idea about how to act right?
Though my internal self suggested, “Go meet your Prince Charming and express your feelings!”
I refused to do so. I wanted to save myself from embarrassment. I didn’t want to create a bad impression the same way as the weirdo did.
Taking my diary, I opened a new page to write a poem and titled it Adios. After repeated attempts, here is what I wrote:
A spirit is kindled within my body, Long in waiting with an earnest hope Both deep and superficial at once, It shakes me from my slumber of reality. I become the tiny speck of dust, Dancing in the beam of sunlight I become the wave of the ocean that, Pounds its forceful fist on the shore. I turn into the nonchalant rain cloud, Teasing all the lands with its shadow I drift along with the lightest of feathers, And drop down with melting snowflakes. Until a sober voice echoes in my head, Chiding me to steady my wandering heart But who doesn’t fall for unbridled happiness, And the love I feel when I think about you! How would you feel when I tell you this? The force of it hits me hard at my insides. Doubt and fear interlace with my thoughts I wait like moonlight stopped in its tracks, Ready to take flight with a leap of faith Across the darkest stretches of the night, Leaving all the questions for time to answer. - Your Loving Intern
I tore off the page cutting off the date and hoped to place it in my Prince Charming’s cabin. At least this way, I wanted to express myself.
The next day while my friends were writing the final report, I walked to the Heat Exchangers Department and asked the attendee if I could meet the Assistant Engineer. I was informed that sir wasn’t in his cabin and was advised to wait for him.
After getting to know the directions, I looked around and spotted no one. Checking the nameplate which said, “Nihal Nair, Assistant Engineer”
I tried opening the door but it was locked. With no other option left at my disposal, I kneeled and slipped the paper through the small space beneath the door.
While returning, I loved the fact that both of our names started with the same letter.
In the afternoon, our team submitted our report to Mr Pratap. Taking a look at it, he said, “There are a lot of corrections to be done. This is just the first draft.”
We spent the next four days making the corrections and by the end of the fourth day, we submitted the final draft. After our submission, we were informed that our internship certificate will be sent by post.
That evening, I and Meera rushed back to her home. After freshening up and packing my bag, I had my dinner. Before I left, I thanked Meera’s mother. I requested her to visit my home in Konchi.
In return, Meera’s mother demanded that I visit her as soon as the next vacation started. Looking at Shiva as he stood beside his mother, I said, “Thank you for the blanket and pillow.”
He just smiled.
As the winds grew cold, Meera dropped me at the bus stop. Before I bid goodbye, she said, “I’m sorry if I hurt you Naina. I hope you understand. I was only trying to help you.”
I hugged her before getting into the bus. When the journey began, I started thinking about how my internship had made me learn many new aspects. Hoping to fill a few more pages in my diary, I opened my handbag. To my surprise, I couldn’t find it.
Shocked, I immediately called Meera to check if I left it in her room. Answering my call, she informed me, “Yes. You left it beside the rocking chair.”
Asking her to carry it with her when she comes to college, I cut the call.
Credits
This story was created & contributed by Nikhila Kotni & R. S. Chintalapati, edited by Ahna Sahi, Apoorva Singh, & Sreeraj Kolora and photographed by Pankaj Tottada.
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