Beyond The Golden Skies

♛ 08: South Sonambar •

Ayush quickly brushed his hair in the mirror, coiffing it into a neat style. He dotted orange-scented hair-gel on his palm and lined it within the layers of his tresses. Perfect. He winked at his reflection as an easy smile played on the corners of his lips. Sakshi would be riding on his bike for the first time. He had washed it sparkling clean and left it to dry in the afternoon sun. Humming a soft tune from his favourite love song, he danced his way out, oblivious to his father's presence in the living room. Amar set his newspaper aside and called out to him.

"Ashu, where are you going?"

He froze for a second before gaining composure. "I . . . will be back within an hour."

"I am planning to visit Gupta Uncle's family. Why don't you come along?"

"I'd love to come, but not today. Maybe next week."

Amar frowned and tsked. "He's been wanting to see you for a long time, son. Come, no?"

Ayush's conscience troubled him. His father glowed with hopeful expectation. Though he hated to disappoint Amar, he was bound by his word to Sakshi.

"I have some important work, Papa," he said, choking on his words.

Amar let out a weak sigh. "Alright, you carry on."

"I'll surely visit him next week."

"Helmet?"

"Yes, Papa."

Hopping onto his bike, he rode across the scenic plains of Sonambar to their usual meeting point, Chocobar Café. He spotted a young girl in a mustard yellow salwar with her face covered waiting near the entrance. He didn't think twice before halting in front of her. Her beautiful kohl-lined eyes were puffy and bloodshot.

"Yaara, what happened?"

"I-I'm fine, Ayush. How are you?"

"What's with the formality all of a sudden?"

"Just like that."

"Ready to go?"

She dipped her head in a nod.

"Something is bothering you."

"I've never climbed on a bike in ages."

"Ohh, you said you like to drive vehicles."

"I meant my Bhaiyya's jeep. Not a two-wheeler."

"Impressive!"

"What if I fall off, or worse, make you land on the ground?"

He snorted in laughter. "Nothing will happen. Just get on top and I'll take care of the rest."

"How do I climb on?"

"Hold my shoulders, place your leg on the rest footrest and put your feet on either side."

With a fluttery empty sensation in her stomach, she gripped his shoulder and hopped on the bike.

"That was easy!" she said.

"Haha, told you so! Are you comfortable?"

"Yes, we can leave."

"Make sure your dupatta is your on lap, else it might tangle in the wheel."

"Done," she said, smiling at how much he cared about her comfort and safety.

They rode through the bumpy roads, speeding past buildings, trees and animals. When they crossed a flyover over the Lehak River, Ayush gasped as she tightened her grip on his waist. A rush of adrenaline pumped through their bodies. Cool breeze filtered through her clothes. The pincode and addresses on signboards shifted from North to South Sonambar.