Page 10 of Reckless Rival

The woman who ran the prestigious university was well-known for producing quality leadership in business, politics, science, and in every other industry. “Good morning, everyone,” Neelima Raj spoke in a firm, authoritative voice. “I’m going to keep the speech brief since I know all of you are excited to be back at Simha, and you can’t wait to catch up with your friends and plan parties for the rest of the year.”

There was good-natured laughter from the audience.

Neelima Raj smiled. “I would like to reiterate what Simha University stands for. We not only put value on quality education, we also focus on quality character. Most of your parents might be millionaires or billionaires, but at Simha University, you will be taught humility and modesty. The years spent at Simha will mentor you to be empathetic leaders in the future. Success comes in various measures. By graduating from any elite university, you are ensured monetary success. But at Simha, along with achieving monetary success, we teach you to make a positive impact on a group of people and add value to society. That is considered a true success. Always keep that in mind.”

There were enthusiastic claps.

Nami joined the group, cheering for what the university dean conveyed. Although the speech was brief, she felt connected to each word that was said. Neelima Raj nodded regally in acknowledgment.

“The student council has arranged a mid-year commencement event. Since we have a few new students, it will also be a welcome event. I wish you all the best. Make Simha proud.”

Later that day, Nami was on the computer in her room, choosing the extracurricular classes for the semester. She had attended the lunch arranged by the student council and was glad to have met a few other students who were there to study architecture like her. She needed a killer project to make an impact and was glad she could get some of the senior students’ contact details.

Ramya walked in loudly and collapsed on the bed. “What ya doing, cuz?”

Nami let out a sigh and threw her hands up. “I have no idea what to do with the sports requirement, and dance is not considered an athletic activity.”

Ramya rolled her eyes. “Just pick a sport and play.”

Nami pointed at the screen. “Two hours, four days a week, minimum. I’ll be dead after that. I need to be the topper this semester to have a chance for another semester as an exchange student.”

“You can do it. C’mon. Pick badminton… we can play together.”

“Not happening.” Nami had a strategy in mind so she could meet the required coursework and still have enough time to ace all her exams. “I need another option.”

“Why don’t you sign up to be a tennis ball girl, then?” Ramya offered.

“Wait. Does that count as a sport?”

Ramya shrugged. “I guess. The requirement is to be part of a sports team. Does it matter what you do?”

“What? Is that right?” Her eyes blazed with excitement as other options occurred to her.

“You could pick a game where you can be on the bench the entire season.” Ramya laughed.

Nami shook her head. “I don’t want to do that. I really want to contribute but not be dead tired and unable to study and work on my project.”

“Can you chill a bit and enjoy college life?” Ramya grumbled.

Nami was busy looking through the still-open positions on the sports teams. Her eyes widened when she found the perfect one. “A boxer’s assistant also called the second.”

“Seriously? That sounds like a boring job to do.” Ramya scrunched her nose.

“That’s fine. I can still put in the hours and not be dead tired after.” Nami didn’t give it another thought as she filled out the form for the role and submitted it. “Now, I’m set for the semester. I just need to focus on my architecture project.”

“What about dance?” Ramya inquired, knowing Nami was a trained classical dancer.

Nami pressed her lips together. “My counselor said I needed to do something out of my comfort zone.”

“And…” Ramya raised a curious eyebrow. “You’ll just take on anything even if you don’t enjoy it?”

“It’s one semester, and I’ll do what it takes to increase my chances to extend or even come back for another semester in my final year and maybe… maybe have enough credits to graduate as a Simha.” It would be a dream come true if her strategy worked out.

Ramya scoffed. “Don’t pretend like Cambridge is a dump of a university.”

Nami rolled her eyes. “Let’s not start the argument again.” She had explained to all of her family members over a dozen times why Simha was so important to her. She wanted to experience what her father had while at Simha. The university is known to mold every student in such a way that they are successful in any field they choose to be in and to be leaders in their choice. Her father’s company was one of the best on the continent in specialized construction, and she wanted to see it on the top.

“Please continue to live up to the bar you set a few days ago. Go kiss some more boys tonight.” Ramya laughed, making her cheeks flush, half from embarrassment and half from a strange excitement.

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