She Hates Perfume!

They sat in the nearest caféteria they had found just to get refuge from the blazing sun and claustrophobic crowd.

They ordered their beverages and sat sipping in silence. Beads of perspiration formed on his forehead despite the air-conditioned café.

Finally, he addressed the trouble.

He – So, you do know that it’s her birthday soon, right?

With the ceramic coffee mug in hand, she scoffed.

She – So, you do know that I'm her best friend, right?

His perspiration increased somehow and sweat rolled down through his cheeks.

He – Yes absolutely, you know! So I’m thinking of getting her a perfume of her favourite flower – lily.

She remained silent for a while and then spoke in a grim tone.

She – She hates perfumes. Especially lily!

His tension had now peaked at having his plan crash like a house of cards.

He – I thought every girl likes perfumes.

She put down her mug rather loudly.

She – Listen, I know her well. She’s my best friend. If you want to win her over, feed her!

He nodded like he was mentally taking notes.

He – What kind of food? Any specifics?

She – Non-vegetarian food. Especially lamb and prawn! She loves it.

A bright smile lit his face as he relaxed a little. He had a new plan now.

She (to herself) – And that’s how you protect your best friend who is a vegetarian by choice, from any kind of heartbreak and from compassionless people who try to steal her from you.

And she beamed with warm fuzzies!