‘Come the Republic Day,’ said Roopa, as they reached the bus stop, ‘and I’ll be there to spot you in the live telecast.’
‘That is,’ said Sandhya laughing, ‘if the video-wallahs happen to focus on me.’
‘Why, you have the gait to parade men behind you,’ said Roopa adoringly. ‘And your face, well who can miss it, even in a crowd!’
‘Romantic as ever,’ said Sandhya pressing Roopa’s hand endearingly.
At length, as the city bus was spotted, Roopa pressed Sandhya’s hand and said, ‘Remember that I miss you.’
‘My own longing for you,’ Sandhya whispered endearingly into Roopa’s ear, ‘reminds me about your craving for me.’
‘Bye, sweetie,’ said Roopa as Sandhya boarded the bus.
Waving at Roopa, as the bus moved, thought Sandhya, ‘How lucky to have a fried and lover in Roopa. Oh, isn’t it clear that Sathyam is not a match for her, even though he loves her. It looks like she has adjusted to life with him. What else could the poor thing do?’