Janu visits the bookstore to speak with Nirima following their previous chess match. He finds her obsessing over a chessboard, trying to analyze why she lost to Anii. Janu attempts to convince her to move on, noting that her distress stems from her bruised ego rather than the game itself. Nirima admits she struggled to find weaknesses in her gameplay and is determined to improve her performance.
Recognizing that chess is currently a sore subject, Janu suggests they play a different game to reset the atmosphere. They settle on a game of Blackjack using a deck of cards. As they play, their conversation shifts to more personal territory. Janu opens up about his insecurity regarding his position as a teacher, admitting he fears being replaced and doesn't know what he would do if he lost his place in their lives. Nirima, in turn, reflects on her difficult relationship with the former teacher, Mrs. Butachona.
The game ends with Janu winning, but he offers a sportsmanlike handshake. Nirima accepts the gesture, and the two agree to play further rounds. The scene concludes with the two of them playing several more games; the rivalry softens, and Janu observes that Nirima is surprisingly pleasant to interact with when she isn't trying to act superior or belittle him.