Rohita

Chapter 15

Milind, his office bag fastened to his shoulder, climbed down the wooden stairs behind Ravi. They both walked towards the parking lot, their footsteps clattering. Milind drew a heavy breath of fresh air, unlocked the doors, and placed his bag in the rear seat. He pulled the car out of the parking slot, Ravi in the passenger's seat. While he steered his car forward, Ravi lowered the window. He waved at Rohita who was standing on the balcony.

Milind was content about their togetherness in the previous night. He hadn't interfered when Rohita sat with Ravi on the porch until ten while Milind watched TV. Rohita didn't tell him to join them, maybe because she was upset with the incident in Punjab. Milind didn't regret his decision to wound her by talking about kids. He wanted to bring his wife closer to Ravi. But he decided not to tease her anymore as Rohita appeared interested in Ravi.

Milind drove his car towards the Princeton Junction, his mood enlightened to the eye soothing sunny weather. He expected Ravi would initiate the conversation but he remained silent. Perhaps, their tête-à-tête till after midnight had left him with nothing to say. But Milind didn't want to remain quiet.

"I know it was late when we finished watching the movie." He changed the lane to pass a car in front. "I hope you rested well, afterwards."

"Yes, I slept well, but we shouldn't have woke up so late."

"I am a late sleeper, especially on the weekends."

"That certainly not a good habit," Ravi said. "What about Rohita? Does she sleep late, too?"

The fact Ravi was concerned for Rohita enlightened him. Milind had observed him being compassionate. He would no doubt take care of his future partner very well. "Rohita is busy these days, and I don't like to disturb her."

"I know, she is studying hard," Ravi said. "I know she never gave up on her career matters."

"I am realizing it, too." Milind steered his car and parked it inside the Princeton Junction parking space. "What time will you be back?"

"Maybe at seven o'clock." Ravi stepped out of the car.

"Call me when you get here," Milind said. "I will pick you."

Ravi closed the door. "No, don't worry about me." He peered through the window. "I will take a taxi."

"All right, bye."

Milind admired Ravi for his friendliness, and he had become close to Milind. Ravi spoke to everyone with utmost confidence and maturity. At times, he mediated when Milind argued with Rohita, clearing the air. Ravi didn't seem to have a crush on Rohita, and didn't appear to suspect lacunae in the marital relationship. Perhaps, Ravi had overlooked Milind's intention, but Milind needed to make him perceive it.

Milind drove back on Route1 South, parked his car in his office parking lot, and went inside. The employees in the adjacent cubicle stared at the computer screen, sipping their morning coffee.

He clicked open the outlook express to check his email messages. No communication, neither from Larry nor from his colleagues. A week had passed since Steve took his module and executed the release. Milind hoped his manager would speak and assign a new work soon. Should I meet Larry and talk? But he wasn't sure if Larry had calmed down yet, and controlled his urge to do so.

After reading a couple of messages, Milind craved for coffee and walked to the break room, mug in his hand. On his way, he peered into Larry's office through the half opened door. His manager was seated by the table, typing on the computer keyboard. Milind didn't dare to go to him, and walked ahead.