Sneaky Again

The usual weekly date ritual.

Only this week, we had planned to watch a movie together - one of Dona’s all-time favourites, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. It had been a temporary relaunch in the theaters, and the monumental initial success of this movie got its loyal audience rushing back to theaters for a rewatch. Dona was no exception.

Oh, this was exactly 7 days before we would leave for Bombay (our first trip together).

Upon meeting up at Acropolis Mall, we had some time to kill before having to head to the theaters. We entered the Japanese convenience store Miniso, which had been making waves around the city.

Scrolling through the aisles, we noticed a gallon bottle - it was one of those sturdy plastic bottles with a dumbbell inspired grip, meant to hydrate gym goers on the run. I used to have one of those back in Hyderabad, but during the shift, I had to leave it behind. And somehow I had let Dona know of it.

I had to step out of the store to take care of some small momentary business, and upon my return, we decided to head to the movies.

A few hours, laughs and dances later, we bade adieu to the multiplex and headed to a North Indian restaurant in the locality for a 5PM lunch (Punjabee Rasoi, if you are wondering - and the food is to die for).

This is where I get up to wash my hands, and in due time, I return to the table with Dona smiling brightly with her eyes, a paper bag in her hand, and inside of it, the same gallon bottle from Miniso. Yep - while I had stepped out to take care of my own business, she took the opportunity to buy that same bottle in my absence and gift it to me in the most perfect moment possible.

She knew I had a similar bottle back in Hyderabad that I could not bring home.

She knew that I was regular at the gym at that time.

She knew how much water I really needed during a good workout.

She knew I would not let her buy one consciously, in full awareness.

So, she did it behind my back and surprised me right before a very wholesome meal.

Sneaky, yet again? 🌚