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Getting hastily dressed, I answer the call outside the room because seeing Huan naked is counterproductive to being able to form sensible words. And right now, I should be sensible. Many things have happened. Like a long list of things I need deep analysis on… if only I can float out of the sex fog clouding my brain.
Unsurprisingly, Mohinder Uncle helps. Sometimes men can save the day. Especially if they are raspy and chiding. He’s been my mother’s agent since the start of her career—not strange when loyalty is huge with her—so he’s not just Uncle out of respect, but because I truly see him as my pestering, but well-intentioned uncle.
His voice booms, as if needing to make the journey from India. “We’ve been trying to reach you!”
I grip the phone harder. Is something wrong? I’ve been self-absorbed on this trip, and though itfeelslike freedom, that doesn’t mean it isn’t selfish. I should be available… or call home more… or if it’s something really bad, do I need to go back immediately?
“We? Who is we? Is everything okay?”
“I’m here, too,” my mother answers, her voice making it clear that I’m on speakerphone on their side. “And I’m sorry, Komal. Don’t panic. I asked Mohinder to call you, but I didn’t realize he assumed that meantkeepcalling you. I thought he would’ve left a message. Nothing is wrong.”
The tension in my shoulders releases instantly. Nothing is wrong? They interrupted Huan’s gravelly promise ofI will fuck you all dayfor no reason? I want to hit my head against a wall.
“Her voicemail was full,” Mohinder says with a grumble.
“So?” Mom’s voice is fainter now, like she has turned away to address him. “That doesn’t mean we harass my daughter when she’s in London, Mohinder.”
“Sorry, madam. I didn’t want her to miss this chance.”
“What chance?” I ask, stressing again marginally.
“Oh”—my mother’s tone practically chirps—“a friend of a friend of mine found out that you’re in London, and she has an inside connection with Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley Hotel. Anyway, I know you are keeping a low profile and she wouldn’t be there, but she graciously offered to set you up with some afternoon tea if you’re interested?”
When I don’t answer right away, my mother continues. “I only mention it because I know you love sandwiches. But if you’ve already got plans, I’ll tell her you’re otherwise occupied.”
A friend? Is it an important friend? Will she be upset if my mother turns her down?
In an instant, I feel not only that I have to decide, but that I’ve got to make therightdecision. This is a favour from someone my mother knows. Should I be saying yes because it reflects well on her? Is it a connection she needs to keep healthy for professional or personal reasons?
Or is it just a gift? That I get for… living this amazing life. Routine sheepishness spreads through me.I'm so lucky. What have I done to get this lucky?
Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley Hotel does sound incredible. But also Huan and I?—
We’re not done, yet.
“Do you have anything planned today?” Mom asks.
Nothing that involves tea, sandwiches, and cute desserts.
“No…” I say, trailing off.
“Do you want me to set this up for you?”
“Don’t worry,” Mom says. “You can message Mohinder your answer later.”
“Thank you,” I muster out. I feel like I’m back home in the middle of my regular life, except it’s never felt as laborious as it does right now. I’ve got bands across my chest, squeezing me… over tea. It’s ridiculous. This is a simple offer. Sandwiches. Why does it feel bigger than that? Or has every little thing felt this way in Pollywood, and I've never noticed?
“Well, we don’t want to keep you—” she starts.
“Actually,” Mohinder Uncle interrupts. “Since I’ve got you both, I wanted to go over some things. That’s okay, isn’t it, Komal? You can spare a few minutes, right?”
My mom doesn’t like the ambush. She makes a frustrated noise.
Mohinder Uncle makes a placating noise.
I don't want any trouble, so I step in. “It’s okay, Mom. I have a few minutes.”
“Good. Very good.” Mohinder Uncle clears his throat. “So, a magazine editor reached out to me. They are asking to set up a video interview of Komal and you, Shreya madam, together. Before you say anything, this isn’t like other opportunities. This magazine has crossover readership in Hollywood.” He pauses. “If you both agree, I’ll get them to send over their interview questions for us to review.”
