Short Story: Dream On by Chinmay Rastogi

Chinmay Rastogi’s story takes the reader into the mind of a young and restless person sharing a glimpse of their life at close quarters in a captivating narrative.

There are few things Ruhi hates more than waiting. She knows the only way to avoid a caustic start to the date when Akash comes to pick her up is to have some shut-eye. She’d munched on some chips just to keep herself distracted, but Akash has made reservations in an upscale restaurant — the second time this month — and she wants to enjoy the five-course meal. 

Ruhi remains unmoved on the sofa, her butt and back lined perfectly with its backrest. She eyes the engagement ring on the table beside her. She hasn’t put it on even once because she’s still not sure about her answer, not sure of what and how much to tell him. She hears the clock on the wall in front of her tick. Ruhi frowns — the hands don’t seem to be moving. She kicks off her heels and stretches out on the sofa. The soft, dim light of the table lamp next to her makes up for all the light in her one-bedroom Hauz Khas apartment. A gentle breeze glides in. She took a hot shower half an hour ago. Falling asleep is easy.