Rohan feels left out as his friends talk inside jokes and make plans without him. With Ishan’s advice, he starts to see things differently—but will it change anything? Let’s find out today! 

After school—Rohan and Ishan—are sitting on the last bus seat heading home. Rohan looks distracted, staring at the ground.

Ishan: Bro, you look like someone stole your lunch during break. What’s up?

Rohan: Nothing.

Ishan: Liar. Jaldi bata.

Rohan: It’s just… I don’t know, man. I was hanging out with my class friends yesterday and I felt super left out. Everyone was laughing at inside jokes I didn’t get, talking about stuff I had no clue about. I was just sitting there, nodding like a background character.

Ishan: Ah, classic NPC(non playable character) behavior.

Rohan: Exactly! I felt like an extra in my own friend group. Am I just boring, or are they secretly all bored of me?

Ishan: Chill, dude. No one’s bored of you. This just happens sometimes. And chances are they didn’t even realize you were feeling this way.

Rohan: Yeah, but it’s not just once. It’s been happening a lot. They’re making plans without me, cracking jokes I don’t get… I feel like I don’t fit in anymore. I feel like a clueless outsider.

Ishan: Okay, first of all, I can see that you have not overthought this AT ALL? And second, have you actually tried, you know, talking to them about it?

Rohan: What am I supposed to say? “Hey guys, remember me? Your forgotten friend?”

Ishan: Or… you could just mention that you’ve been feeling a little out of the loop. Like, casually. I bet they don’t even realize it.

Rohan: What if they think I’m being needy?

Ishan: Dude, everyone feels left out at some point. It’s normal. If they’re real friends, they won’t think it’s a big deal. I mean, I’d want to know if I was making a friend feel that way.

Rohan: Hmm. Maybe.

Ishan: Also, do you even know what half their conversations are about?

Rohan: Not really. They’re always talking about some new show or game.

Ishan: Bro, there’s your answer. Maybe check out what they’re into. Not saying you have to fake it, but sometimes just knowing what’s up helps.

Rohan: So, what? Binge-watch their favorite show overnight and show up tomorrow like, “Hey guys, I’m one of you now”?

Ishan: No, genius. Just take an interest. Ask about it, join in when they’re talking. They’ll notice.

Rohan: And if they don’t?

Ishan: Then maybe you’re trying to fit in with people who don’t make the same effort for you. I mean, we’ve been best friends for years, and I don’t remember needing inside jokes to enjoy hanging out.

Rohan: True. You and I mostly bond over food.

Ishan: Exactly! And food never leaves anyone out. Unlike some people.

Rohan: Okay, I get it. I’ll try talking to them, maybe make more effort to join in. And if that doesn’t work, I’ll just hang out with you and eat my feelings.

Ishan: Solid plan. But also, don’t overthink it, man. You belong, even if it doesn’t feel like it sometimes.

Rohan: Yeah… thanks, bro.

Ishan: No worries. Now, pass me the chips before I start feeling left out.

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