Page 50 of 12 Years

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‘Cool, so do you have protection?’

‘No. But I have a chemist’s number who can deliver it fast.’

‘You want to call him?’

I looked at Payal, still shocked. Then I picked up my phone and called the chemist.

‘Waled bhai, I need an urgent delivery.’

‘What?’

‘Digene bottle, one paracetamol strip, Tiger Balm. And a Durex.’

‘Okay, I don’t have Tiger Balm.’

‘That’s fine. Just send the rest.’

‘Okay, which Durex?’

‘Which ones are there?’

‘Pack of three or ten?’

‘I don’t know. Pack of three?’

‘Okay. Extra thin, ribbed, dotted … which one?’

‘Whichever.’

‘Extra thin is in demand. Will send that.’

‘Okay, thanks.’ I ended the call.

‘Why did you order Digene and paracetamol?’ Payal said, blinking.

‘It’s weird to order only condoms.’

‘Really?’ She giggled.

‘I don’t know. Come here,’ I said, pulling her close to me.

We were kissing passionately when the doorbell rang. I quickly wrapped a towel around my waist before answering it.

‘I came in time no?’ Waled bhai said, grinning as he handed me a brown paper bag.

I didn’t respond, but gave him a five-hundred-rupee note instead.

‘No change,’ he said.

‘Keep it,’ I said and shut the door.

I hurried back to the bedroom.

‘Show me the box,’ Payal said.

‘What?’

‘I’ve never seen a condom.’

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