The remnants of vada, kurkure, bhel, and the infamous
IRCTC-approved meal from last night slithered down his large intestine. Like a
snake that approaches its prey furtively and then at the very last moment
strikes with such force that catches the toad unawares, the snake within him
was already in position.
It was any moment now.
He was not someone who was easily bogged down. He fought
with all his might, moved about the compartment in order to slacken himself,
even tried to sleep in the hope of passing time.
But the damage had been done. A fart or two here and there
did provide momentary respite, like a wicket or two when Dhoni is batting at
the other end. That, however, hardly changes the overall scenario.
He, however, was determined. There are instances in people’s
lives that make them apprehensive about doing things, like catching sight of
the vendor picking his nose before serving golgappas. The solitary view that he
had of the toilet in his coach while peeing last night had strengthened his
resolve about not using it for ‘heavier’ purposes. He couldn’t. He wouldn’t.
