As I found myself unable to sleep, I decided to go for a morning jog. The sun, still low on the horizon, painted the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold, casting a warm glow over the landscape. The morning breeze gently touched my face, leaving me feeling refreshed. During my jog, I noticed a curly-haired girl sitting beneath a neem tree, and for some reason, I had a strong feeling that it was Dolly. Approaching cautiously, I confirmed my suspicion. When I reached her, she halted me and, to my surprise, extended a white rose and a Sorry greeting card.
Perplexed, I sincerely asked, “Why are you giving me a rose?”
Dolly, glancing around hesitantly, replied, “Sorry because of me, you got in trouble. I didn't know you would be there. Can we talk somewhere? I don’t want another scene created.” I nodded in acknowledgment and signaled her to follow me. We approached my house where my car was parked, and we sat inside. I drove out of the colony, taking the highway, and noticed a small restaurant, a.k.a. Dhaba. It was a 24-hour open eatery with plastic chairs and tables. I offered to order anything she liked.
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Dolly's demeanor appeared slightly uncomfortable as she replied, "No need, I am not hungry." Poor Dolly, I must say, her stomach betrayed her with a hungry growl. I smiled and handed over the menu again, giving her a stern look so she couldn't refuse. With a little embarrassment, she looked at the menu with great complexity. Then, she raised her hand to call the waiter. A young boy came smiling and asked, “Yes Didi” (an address of respect for an older sister), and she said, “One puri aloo bhaji (a fried Indian bread with potato in tomato onion gravy) and water,” then handed the order to me. Glancing at it, I noticed she ordered the lowest-priced item, yet a fulfilling meal. I glanced at the menu and said, “For me, sabudana khichdi (sago mixed with potatoes, sugar, salt, and peanuts) and curd. Don’t forget to bring two cups of milk tea.”
After a little hesitation, Dolly said, “Sir, I am sorry because of my stupidity; I created a situation. I drank vodka for the first time just for the experience and didn’t want to be scolded by my Aunt Aruna, so I ran into Aunt Aarti’s house from the terrace to the room. I thought Aunt Aarti was sleeping. I was not able to see your face as it was covered. I am sorry again.” Her head remained down. I responded, “What's done is done. We can't change the past, but I am concerned about the situation we find ourselves in.” When the waiter came with the food and served it, I continued the conversation, “So, your aunt is proposing marriage. What do you think? What is your perspective, and what do you want?”