The air in the room was thick with silence. The heaviness of awkwardness pressed down on the girls. Mridha sat down on her bed, gently stroking the tiny kitten, who looked more innocent than she actually was. The soft sound of her stroking was acting as a cover-up to the deep breath and uneasiness her heart was feeling. Across her, Yashika sat with Twix beside her, legs folded and eyes fixed on Mridha, who was clearly afraid even to face the creature.

The sudden encounter with this yellow-eyed creature has shaken Mridha to the core. Her eyes were continuously glancing at him, trying to make sure there was no attack, while her heart was filled with curiosity about the owl and Yashika’s unrealistic friendship. Yashika, who was noticing everything in silence, could clearly tell how nervous Mridha was and hence decided to start the conversation herself.