Dragonflies

CHAPTER 11

Even though love is mostly about being selfish, there are times when bringing a smile on the other person's face makes you happy. One can say that it is the purest form of showing affection for the other. Dedicating your time and effort simply to see a small stretch of somebody's lips, without expecting anything in return, can bring you greater joy. That was why I loved giving surprises on people's birthday. I don't remember anyone doing any of this sort to make my day special, since high school. Nevertheless, I enjoyed buying gifts and planning surprises for everyone. So, when I was told that no one ever celebrated or wished Aylan on his birthday, I decided that I should do something special for him.

"Don't plan anything for next week." I told him.

"Why? What is on next week?" he was puzzled.

"It's your birthday!" I exclaimed.

"So?" he asked indifferently.

"We are going on a trip." I couldn't contain my excitement.

"What? You mean, you and I, we?" I could tell he got a jolt.

"Yes, us." I said beamingly.

"But how? I mean when? For how long? And of course, where?" he sounded overwhelmed.

"Slow down, mister. Take a breath." I giggled. "Don't keep me hanging on, just tell me everything." He demanded.

"Okay, I'll tell you. Since it is January, and the climate is too good, I have booked one of the beautiful destinations at a hill station. We will be staying for two days in a hut and we can go for trekking and there will be a camp fire. And there will be me."

"But it will be quite an expense, right?" he was concerned.

"Don't worry, it's on me. I have a little savings from that crafting business I did." I assured.

"You know, you don't have to do this for me. My birthday isn't a big deal." He said.

"It is, for me. And who knows if it is our last trip together or not! Moreover, I want you to remember me, at least every year on your birthday." I teased.

"You don't have to do this for that. I have plenty of things to remember you." His tone was serious.

"Anyway, pack your stuff. We will be leaving on the day before your birthday."

"Okay. Now where is this place again?" he asked.

"I will send you the details."

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"What was the schedule again?" Aylan asked over his shoulder.

"We have to reach there by 3. The trekking starts at

3.30. And see the sunset around 6.15-ish." I shouted through the wind.

"What's the time now?" he asked, looking through the rearview mirror.

"4.15pm."

"Perfect." Aylan hissed through his helmet.

Apparently, I was not good at directing the way, looking at the Google maps. We took many wrong turns and had to travel all the way back, several times. Miraculously, Aylan managed to keep it calm every time I messed up. We missed our schedule for the trekking which Aylan didn't bother much about. But I knew I'll be doomed, if we miss the sunset which Aylan was really looking forward to.

"Now let me take it from here. We have to get there at least around five and a half." He took the phone from me and insisted on checking the route for himself. I kept quiet thereafter. I really wanted this to be special for him and I ruined the very first thing. Aylan was watching me through the mirror.