The Ethereal Beauty

It was getting dark. The Sun had almost set. But Kanha was sitting on the rock with his feet dangling in the water. He was enjoying the cool waves tickling his feet. 

He was completely immersed in his thoughts.

 Kanha was 35 and single. His parents were pestering him to get married and settle down. But he could not make up his mind. 

His mind raced back to those days when he met her. 

Hi! He heard some sweet voice. Kanha looked up puzzled. 

Hi! he said.

In front of him stood a very beautiful, fair, and delicate girl.

 "I am new here," she said. 

" I am Catherine". She introduced herself. 

"I am Kanha" he introduced himself. 

Catherine was from London. She had come to India to study. 

Kanha had just done an MBA and working in a reputed multinational firm. He had a good job. 

" Care to join me for a cup of coffee, if it's ok with you". Kanha asked 

"Sure," she replied. 

They both entered a nearby coffee shop. 

Soon they began to date each other and Kanha fell in love with her. 

Together they enjoyed the monsoon. Getting drenched in rain was what he loved. He often pulled her and enjoyed her closeness, her warmth, her touch. He loved watching raindrops trickling down her eyelashes, her cheeks. 

The warmth radiating from her body was inviting. Still, he had to maintain the distance. 

Catherine too loved to be near him. 

Days passed; months passed. 

   They both discussed common topics related to business. This is how he perceived she was ambitious. He was happy and dreamt of a rosy future. He decided he would soon propose to her. 

They both would buy gifts for each other on occasion. 

One evening his mobile started ringing. That was Catherine's number. He immediately picked it up. He was ecstatic. " Today is the day" he mumbled.  

 "Yes, Cathy! "

 " Hi" Kanha it is urgent!"

"What happened"

"I won't be able to meet you." 

"Why?"

"I'm leaving for London today and I am on my way to the airport. Sorry! I couldn't inform you. It was so sudden! I rang up to thank you for all your help, your friendship, and your company. You are a wonderful friend. "

"When will you return? "asked Kanha. 

"Maybe I won't" said Catherine.

 "And why not? "asked Kanha, dejectedly. 

"Well, I didn't tell you. I am getting married to my boyfriend. I will send you my Wedding Invitation. "

I rang you up yesterday. But you didn't pick up my call. Check my missed call. "

Kanha was stunned. He remained silent. 

"Oh Kanha, are you listening? 

You must come to my wedding. 

Good by dear friend. It's boarding time. "

That was all. Catherine just disappeared from his life.