Devrudra Banerjee

----

The same day

As dusk settles over the winter landscape, the world is cloaked in a serene, almost ethereal beauty. The sky, once vibrant with the day's fading light, now transforms into a gradient of deep purples and soft pinks, blending seamlessly into the encroaching darkness. A few lingering clouds, tinged with the last traces of sunlight, drift lazily across the horizon.

In a tranquil twilight, surrounded by the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms of late winter,  I and her sat across from each other at a small wrought-iron chairs. She, an introvert with a quiet demeanor, nervously fidgets with the edge of her notebook. Her soft, thoughtful eyes occasionally glance up from under a fringe of dark hair, only to quickly dart back down when they meet my gaze.

I smiled reassuringly, trying to create a space where she feels safe to share her thoughts.

"So, about the project," I began, my voice gentle and inviting. "I was thinking , if you could give me an outline of the project, it would help me to decipher my role in it. What do you think?"

She took a deep breath, her fingers finally stilling. Her voice was soft but steady as she responds, "I think... sure. let me show my project  on my Ipad?"

I nodded enthusiastically, my smile widening. "yeah sure."

 She pushed a strand of hair behind her ear and looked up, her eyes meeting mine briefly. There was a newfound confidence in her voice, an assertiveness that resonated with each word. "Yes, actually. I've been developing a new idea, and I think it could be an excellent fit for this project. I chose Glioblastoma Multiforme, as it's not only the most aggressive but also the most prevalent primary brain tumor in adults. Originating from glial cells, it exhibits rapid growth and an incredibly invasive nature, making it notoriously difficult to treat."

She paused for a moment, her gaze steady and thoughtful. "This project could explore the complexities of GBM, delving into its genetic heterogeneity and the challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier. We could also investigate innovative treatment approaches, such as targeted therapies and advanced drug delivery systems, aiming to improve patient outcomes despite the daunting prognosis. It's a multifaceted topic that could provide profound insights."

His interest piqued, he leans in a bit closer. "I'd love to hear more about it. Could you walk me through it?"

As she began to explain, her voice gained strength, and her words flew more freely. I listened attentively, occasionally nodding or asking questions to show my engagement. The garden around us seemed to fade into the background as we delved deeper into the details of her project, the conversation bridging the gap between our personalities.

The twilight's tender embrace sipped through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the iron chairs, and a gentle breeze carries the scent of flowers.

"What do you think about this? Is it promising? Sotti bolben kintu?" she asked, her tone somber and laced with a hint of confidence. 

[tell the truth only]

"Indeed, I will speak the truth," I said, raising an eyebrow with a gravity that matched the moment. "But tar age tumi kore bolte hobe, mone achhe to?"

[but, before that you have to address me as tumi, I hope you remember that?]

"Ah, my apologies," she said with a faint, apologetic smile that softened her features. "please- bolo tomar motamot?"

[Please, do share—what are your thoughts]

"Listen," I began, my voice steady and measured, "there is no doubt that your idea holds significant promise. However, it's crucial that you approach it with meticulous care and depth. This is not merely a report on a specific topic; you are endeavoring to propose a hypothetical solution. Therefore, we must ensure that we gather and thoroughly examine every conceivable piece of information. The success of your project hinges on the comprehensiveness of our research and understanding."

"Then you are willing to help me?" she chided.

 "Ah, ha," I said with a serene expression. "Look I may be a man of simple tastes, but ei project er part hobar lov ami samlate parlam na . It's a challenge to fully appreciate the depth and complexity involved."

[but, I can't resist the greed to be part of this project]

"Very well," she said, her voice carrying a note of determination. "I will provide you with a No Objection Certificate, which will formally designate you as my secondary advisor, ensuring that you are bound by confidentiality regarding all aspects of this project. She paused, her gaze steady and sincere. "I understand this may seem like a considerable responsibility, especially for a project still in its preliminary stages, but I believe it is necessary to ensure the integrity and success of our work."

"Absolutely!" I acknowledged, fully understanding her concern. "Regardless of the project's stage, the No Objection Certificate is essential. Please send me the form at your earliest convenience, and I will sign it promptly. However, ekta proshno chhilo- should I provide a physical signature on a printed copy, or will a digital signature suffice?"

[I have one question]

",digital sign ei hobe." she replied, her demeanor stead[y yet tinged with a subtle hint of nervous anticipation. "I will send the form to you immediately. If it's feasible for you, I mean, ami kal thekei shuru korte chaichi asole please sign it at your earliest convenience. , and your prompt response would be greatly appreciated."

[Digital signatures will be sufficient]

[I am eager to commence this project, ideally starting from tomorrow]

"ekdom" I smiled at her response, the corners of my lips curving into a warm expression of understanding and reassurance. The smile was not just a simple gesture but a reflection of my genuine appreciation for her meticulous planning and dedication. It conveyed my willingness to support her and my enthusiasm to move forward with the project. The moment was filled with a sense of mutual respect and anticipation, as we both looked forward to the collaborative journey ahead.

[sure]

I observed her with admiration, noting the palpable enthusiasm that radiated from her very presence. Her eyes sparkled with determination, and her posture exuded a confidence that spoke volumes about her commitment to the project. She had chosen a remarkable and challenging topic, one that demanded both courage and intellectual rigor. I was inspired by her dedication and felt a deep sense of responsibility to support her in every possible way. My resolve was strengthened by the realization of how important this endeavor was to her, and I was determined to contribute wholeheartedly, ensuring that we navigated the complexities together and achieved something truly meaningful.

----

Author's note

In the soft glow of twilight, two souls find themselves in a moment that feels suspended in time. As they engage in their first conversation, the air is thick with anticipation and unspoken emotions. Each word they share becomes a step in a delicate dance, weaving their dreams together like a beautiful tapestry. Dancing through dreams creates a dreamy embrace of warmth, which enlighten the ambience of new budding relation.

I tried to incorporate bengali dialogue to create a ambience which is shows the inner hunger of every bengali would feel when they meet another bengali...