Episode 57 : Arranged marriage

Edwina and I were talking about something and I remarked that the number of white hairs on my head are increasing.

'I am growing old' I added in mock sadness.

'Get married!' was her immediate reply.

Like always, I failed to see the logic behind increasing white hair and my bachelor status. As it is I am trying to find ways to reduce white hair, not increase it!

A couple of days later, Mama Hyde and I were talking about something.

'Get married!' she said to something I said.

Again?!

'Well, your sister believes it is time that you do, now that you are not seeing anyone.'

Relatives and well-wishers secretly connive behind my back. Mama Hyde was telling me of yet another instance when Papa Hyde piped in.

'My colleague was asking how old you are. When I said 28, he asked if we are looking for a girl.'

I am not surprised that Edwina and Mama Hyde bring up this topic when they get an opportunity. I never expected Papa Hyde to join the fray!

Nowadays I watch what I say at home. You never know how the human mind can come up with the strangest of logic in support of an argument!

On Saturday, I was getting the electricals of my Royal Enfield checked. A retired Wing Commander, who was also getting his bike checked there, and I got talking. Like all older people are wont to do, he enquired about my work, where I studied and things like that.

Then he asked me with a mischievous look on his face, 'Are you happy?' and added after a pause, 'Or are you married?'

I laughed and replied I am happy.

I should have said I am very happy.