Cherreads

Chapter 6 - Chapter 06 : A Quiet Night Full of Loud Thoughts

I went into the bathroom to freshen up. After wiping my face, I stepped out and headed to the living room.I sat on the floor, took out the books I bought, and started looking through them.

When I was reading the chess book, I understood the moves better on a real chessboard.A notification popped up on my phone, but I ignored it — it would only disturb my studying.

I finished the opening strategies and moved to another book: How to Read People Like a Book.As I read, I got a better understanding of micro-expressions and natural human behavior. I was just re-reading these books, so I already knew most of the main topics and context.

After a while, I got bored of reading. I stood up and asked my mom if dinner was ready.

"Yes, I was waiting for you," she said.

We ate together, and after cleaning the dishes, I went to sleep. My mom lay down beside me.

"Hey Rahul! You're coming home late these days. Did you get a girlfriend or something?" Mom asked.

"No, Mom, I didn't. I just got a part-time job that pays well, that's all. And if I ever get a girlfriend, I'll introduce her to you first."

"You know what, Rahul? I just want you to be happy and live a normal life like other boys. I don't know if I'm raising you well or not."

"I'm a well-mannered and well-raised kid… a healthy kid of my mom. I may not be 'normal,' but I'm living happily. Just wait a little more, Mom. My plan will work out. Then you won't have to worry about anything. We'll be happier than this."

"What kind of plan?"

"It's a surprise. So sleep for now, Mom—go, go."

"Okay, okay… but don't push yourself into something you'll regret."

"Okay, Mom. Now please, can you let me sleep?"

As I closed my eyes and placed my hands under my head, only one thought came to mind:

What regret?

And the planning she mentioned… yes, I have plans.From getting admission into college to failing exams — it's all part of my plan.

I know what I'm doing.I know what I need to do in the future.All my steps are lined up like a perfect ladder.

I just have to climb them one by one…

…and reach success.

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