Page 175 of One Indian Girl

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‘Yeah sure,’ he said. ‘By the way, white suits you.’

‘Thanks.’

Brijesh ordered a plain dosa and coffee.

‘Feeling better from last night?’ Brijesh said after the waiter left.

‘Sort of.’

‘We always feel more anxious at night,’ Brijesh said. ‘Don’t worry. Remember, whatever happens in life, eventually it is all going to be okay.’

‘You really believe that?’ I said.

‘Yes.’

‘Good. So Brijesh, I thought about it all night. This just doesn’t seem right. I can’t get married to you today.’

‘What?’ he said. ‘Are you serious? Some nervousness is understandable but...’

‘I am going to inform my parents now. After that I will talk to your parents.’

‘What?’

‘Unless you can talk to them first. I prefer that. Put the blame on me.’

‘Radhika!’

I ignored him and continued, ‘I will settle all bills. Nothing needs to be paid from your family’s side. I am so sorry for this and...’

Brijesh interrupted me.

‘Who the hell do you think you are?’ Brijesh said in an out-of-character high pitch.

I looked at him, surprised.

‘I am sorry. I can understand you are upset,’ I said after a pause.

‘You understand? That’s it? My entire extended family is here. They have celebrated with us for a week. The morning of the wedding what do I tell them? The bride says no? She has cold feet?’

‘It’s all my fault. I accept that.’

‘Everyone is here, Radhika. Everyone.’

‘I know.’

The waiter arrived with Brijesh’s dosa and coffee. Brijesh left them untouched.

‘Can I ask why?’ Brijesh said, his voice under control again.

Tears rolled down my cheeks in response.

‘Why, Radhika?’

‘Those guys who you saw leave. They are my past. My exes.’

He looked back at the restaurant exit.

‘It’s okay. They are gone,’ I said.

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