Article 3

She smothered the crease on the folds of her dress. She was sitting on the bed surrounded by her friends and they were chatting and giggling. They were making fun of her that she couldn't go out today because the bride isn't supposed to come out till her husband arrives. Then  only she’s called outside.

Amidst the giggling, she lost herself once again in her usual day dreaming. The reoccuring thoughts she used to have, how she’s going to shop for her new home, the brand of food she’s going  to buy for the baby she didn't even have yet. She had been waiting eagerly for 2 years; and now the day had come. Her family was thrilled, she was too but she knew she was going to miss them. All those joyful memories she shared with her parents and siblings. The jokes they made at one another. She had to leave all of that and start a new family with a total stranger. ‘But then, daddy and mummy also left their families to form this beautiful one I love’ she said to herself.

One of her friend’s voice woke her from her slumber.

Dilna, it getting late already, where’s your husband?

My dear, he’s coming. Please do help yourself to another piece of cake…’ she said and shrugged her shoulders

About an hour later, they were still waiting and the room was getting hotter; everywhere was crowded. Her in-laws were here too but her fiancé was still not here.  Her parents were getting worried and they came over to the room. She tried calling him but he wasn’t picking up. Her in-laws too tried but no one was picking the call. The crowd outside was now getting disturbed; as everyone was wondering why the event hadn’t started yet. She was also getting scared now. What happened? Did he get caught in an accident? Did his car break down or he lost his way? No, of course he’s been to our house several times ‘she said to herself.

Just at that moment, she got a message and she immediately jumped up and all her friend gathered around her like sardines; all wanting to read what the message said.

 It said “I’m sorry Dilna, I can’t come today, and I’ve something more important to do.” She couldn’t believe what she was reading. What, is he serious at all? Did he forget it was their wedding day? Or did he run away?. 

She tried calling him but now his  number wasn’t reachable. Immediately, tears started to fall from her eyes uncontrollably. Her friends were trying to comfort her, and more people were gathered. Before they knew, news had spread outside that her fiancé has jilted her on her wedding day. The crowd was scattered and everyone was talking closely with one another. In the middle of that tense crowd, she saw a figure scurrying his way through like a mouse. He was sweating profusely and his clothes were rumpled. A smile played on her face as she finally stepped outside and sat near him. 

I’m really sorry” he said as he struggled to catch his breath

She felt really angry  but she refrained herself and asked.

Why are you late? And why haven’t we been able to contact you?

Sorry again, I slept off at my friends house as we were busy trying to get a new cap for me. Then when I woke up, I saw your calls and messages and I came rushing.” He explained

And what was that sms about? A prank or are you just coming from your important business?

What sms’ he asked with a puzzled look

She tossed the phone and as he looked, his face changed from being more puzzled to an angry one and he said.

I sent this sms since last week when you asked to come review the table cloths you bought for the wedding. I wonder why it has just delivered now.

Then she heaved a sigh of relief and smiled.