Half Girlfriend

parents wanted to do it.’
‘Riya, that’s your world. It was me who didn’t fit in.’
‘I can fit in, but I can’t relate to it. I’d rather have a meaningful
conversation over chai than catered sushi with plastic smiles.’
‘How’s Rohan? Sorry, Ro,’ I said.
‘He made quite an impression on you. He’s cool, no?’
‘See, you find him cool. That is your world; I said.
‘He’s over the top and a bit of a show-off. But at least Rohan's fun.
The rest are all boring businessmen who only talk money and
property.’
‘Go have fun then,’ I said and looked away from her.
She tugged at my elbow.
‘Anyway, forget the party. Eye contact, please.’
Eyes squinting against the mid-morning sun, she draped her yellow
dupatta around her face. She looked like a bunch of yellow flowers. I
had to be firm. I ignored how cute she was, lest it weaken my resolve.
‘What did you want to talk about?’ she asked again.
‘The kiss,’ I said.
Riya giggled.‘I can’t believe I am the girl and you are the guy. The
guy wants to talk about it.’
‘Very funny. Now can we discuss it?’
‘What about the kiss? You forced it on me.’
Her answer stumped me. I didn’t know what to say.
‘I... I did it because...' I fumbled for words.
‘Yes, why? Why did you do it, Mr Jha?’
‘Because I...I love you.’
Riya burst out laughing. I didn’t like her laughter this time.
‘Can you please be serious? Your casual behaviour hurts me,’ I
said.
She composed herself and sat cross-legged under the tree.
‘Okay, fine, Madhav, I will be serious. I laughed because I don’t
think you are in love with me.’
‘Oh, really? How do you know that?’