We had returned from Nainital, and I had started going to office as usual. I had been searching for a Publication house for over a month now, with no success. Some Publications wanted money, some wanted known writers. And I was none of these.

My face had started reflecting tension and disappointment. I was less worried that I was not getting a Publisher, but because none of them had even deemed it fit to read my Novel. One feels bad when someone judges you without even listening to you. I was feeling the same.

In front of Rihana I used to act as if I was happy, but from my face she could read my worry. Today she had called me at 7’oclock at the same coffee shop, where we had had the coffee for the first time. Since the coffee shop was near my home, I reached there before time. Girls like it when their boyfriend is waiting for them.

I had occupied a corner table, meant for two, since I did not want anybody else to disturb us. At exact 7.20 pm, Rihana entered.

In sky blue color jeans and white t-shirt, she was looking no less than a heroine. Her smile made me happy, as always. I waved at her and she joined me. I gestured at the waiter to bring two cups of coffee. When the coffee came, Rihana started laughing.

“What happened? Why are you laughing?” I asked.

“I remembered your madness when I saw this cup. You have a similar cup in your room also.”

“I know. That cup reminds me of you. I see it whenever I miss you.” I also smiled.

I was sad about the Novel, but externally I was trying to show that I was very happy.

“You are really mad, Aarav. Who does like that?” she started laughing loudly.

“No one has you. If you were with somebody else, he would have done something even more crazy.” I said looking into her eyes.

“Oh Aarav, You always take advantage of being a writer. You know very well what to say and when.”

“I am telling you the truth.”

“I have noticed that you have been worried for the last many days. Haven’t you got any publisher yet?”

I didn’t want to tell her the truth. But I also knew she would keep asking till she knew the truth.

“What are you thinking, Aarav?”

“Nothing. Yes, I am a bit worried due to not being able to find a publisher.” I finished the coffee in one gulp.

“Next week is your birthday on 27th December - right?” she asked.

“Yes.” I said.

“That day I will give you the best gift of your life. Something you will never forget.”

“What?”

“That is a surprise.” She said, sipping coffee.

Maybe she was talking about taking our relationship to next level. Maybe she wanted me to meet her parents. Maybe she wanted to get physical. I know these were strange thoughts, but I was her boyfriend and such thoughts are normal in such relations.