Me and Ashima. Embracing the essence of everlasting youthful spirit, we have consistently nurtured the childlike joy within our relationship. This narrative encapsulates one such cute or silly moment predating our marriage in 2015, etched vividly in my memory.
On a day eagerly awaited, even amidst the scorching sun, Ashima called to meet her. Anticipating her arrival, I lingered in hopeful expectation. Adhering to the decorum of eagerly awaiting a beloved, I pondered her imminent presence. Well, it’s considered a heartfelt gesture when awaiting someone you hold dear.
Bearing the brunt of the sun’s intensity, I sought refuge at the nearest juice shop, navigating through the environmental challenges posed by a yellow school bus emitting black smoke. As I crossed the road, shielding myself with a handkerchief, a serendipitous turn revealed Ashima approaching from the opposite direction, a sight that instantly elevated my spirits. Brimming with happiness, I approached her, reveling in the beauty of her sweat-glistened face.
Our reunion unfolded spontaneously in the middle of the street, as she ran toward me, and I took her in my arms. Our ensuing conversation echoed the lively banter that characterizes our love and dynamic bond.
“Maa.. (that’s what I call Ashima), Can I share something with you?” I inquired
To which she responded, “Sure, who are you waiting for?”
“Please don’t get upset when I share this.” I reassured.
After a thoughtful pause, she uttered, “Hmm… Alright, I won’t make any promises, but go ahead, tell me what’s on your mind.”
I began the conversation by recounting my vivid dream.
“You appeared in it the previous night. In the dream, I found myself enjoying ice cream with a captivating girl. Strangely, you observed silently, left in frustration, and the next day reality mirrored the dream. As we headed to the office, you discovered I was trailing behind. Swiftly, you turned, seized my hand, and ushered me into a corner, demanding, ‘Who was that girl?’ Upon hearing my response, your demeanor shifted abruptly, and without hesitation, you delivered a resounding slap.” I said.
Her astonishment was palpable upon hearing my revelation. Inquiring, she asked, ‘Why? Why did I slap you? What exactly did you say to me?’
I explained, ‘The scenario unfolded when I playfully misled you, claiming that she was my new girlfriend. Surprisingly, you slapped me without recognizing the jest in my words.’
She chuckled briefly and remarked, ‘I slapped you for a dreamt deception. Do you comprehend the consequences if you were to ever engage in such a prank again?
Speechless in the moment, Ashima and I strolled hand in hand through the streets. Now, after many years and with a marriage between us, I find myself contemplating the what-ifs of that particular day. The memory lingers, and I remain introspective, lost in the contemplation and navigating yet lost in my own endless thoughts.