Distance.

 

She sat by the window sipping her morning coffee. The sunlight streamed through the room filling it with a warm glow. Normally, she’d have made coffee for two and waited at this exact place for him to wake up. And when he did, they both would savour the drink in silence. But today the bed was empty and so was his cup. Six months into their relationship, she got used to him not being at home on weekdays. His job demanded extra work hours and he loved whatever he was doing. It was his dream job, he had told her once. She still remembers the way his eyes twinkled when he showed her the offer letter. He used to return from work by the time she slept and was long gone even before her alarm rang. At times he used to leave a message that he was stuck with a project and won’t be able to come home. Through all of this, she didn’t complain to him nor pouted that he had no time for her. Every morning while he was home, sleeping like a child, she would religiously make him coffee just the way he liked it. She calls it a perfect start to the day.

Last night she helped him pack his suitcase for an official trip. He said his boss had chosen him to present the business plan of his company at a prestigious conference at London. He’ll have to stay there for 10 days and analyze the conditions for a prospective project. He went on and on and on about it. Though she couldn’t figure out most of what he’s saying, she had sensed a hint of pride that was clearly audible in his voice. The flight was at 2:30 a.m. and he insisted that she shouldn’t be up until late, he would leave her a message when he boards the plane. She tried her best to smile at him and nod encouragingly when appropriate. The thought of not seeing him for more than a week had her stomach tied in knots. Long ago she came to terms with him not being around her even if she wanted to. How much ever she tried to convince herself that he’d be back soon, deep down in her heart she knew it wouldn’t give her the comfort of having him beside her. Her plan was to avoid such thoughts by drowning herself in work. So, whenever she could think of it, she kept giving him instructions, checking his documents, essentials, wallet at least once in every 20 minutes.

It was time for him to leave. He was running around the bed getting ready while she watched him with bloodshot eyes. Tears were running down her cheeks slowly but she made sure he couldn’t see them. If he didn’t step out in another 5 minutes he was sure to miss the flight. Huffing and puffing he told her to go back to sleep and take care of herself. He kissed her hair and said he’d call as soon as he reached. And he left. The stillness in the room was eerie and terribly quiet. She felt tired and fell asleep instantly. The alarm rang and she was looking at the other side of the bed. Empty. She closed her eyes and imagined him sleeping there, next to her. That moment her heart calmed a bit and she smiled. Her phone was on the bedside table and he did message her. Thrice. Now she’ll have to wait for him to call. She went inside the kitchen, made coffee and sat at her favourite spot. Just 10 days, said a voice inside her mind.

Wondering if the clock can move any faster, she reluctantly went to the office. There were too many files, assignments and deadlines to keep her busy. In the evening, she came home thinking how to kill time the entire week. She cleaned the house, watered the plants, did some laundry and washed the dishes. Still it felt like only 15 minutes have passed. While looking for any other corner that was left undusted, she stood near the huge ceiling-to-floor bookshelf he bought for her when they moved in. Neatly stacked together in the racks there were more than a hundred books that she had collected since she started reading. Most of them were hers while she generously gave shelter to a few of his books too. Out of habit, she picked one of her most favourite books and sat on the bed to read. A birthday gift for her from him. It was a hardbound copy with the author’s signature. She blushed a little when the memories came flooding back to her. That day he gave her a rose and said that he loved her. And now they have come till here. It was the best 6 months of her life.

Halfway through the book she found that rose, wilted and pressed against the pages and thumbed the petals delicately lest they fall. There was a sheet of paper too that she didn’t remember keeping it there. She opened it and recognized his handwriting. He must have slipped it in yesterday when she wasn’t noticing. It read:

“Maybe the distance will not hurt so much. I’ll keep calling when time permits, promise I won’t be gone for too long. The gut instinct said you would read this book while I’m not with you. No creepy telepathy. A package with some books will be on its way while you’re reading this one. I’m sure you’ll finish them before I come back to you. And yes, I’ve seen you crying . Nice try hiding. Please, don’t. I’ll be back soon. Take care. I miss waking up to your coffee and you. Will try not to miss you. Love you!”

She hugged that letter tight and knew that she’ll read this over and over until he comes. Somebody rang the doorbell. Her phone chimed, his name flashed on the screen.