Ek ladki ka phone number..

Luckily, some of our exams on the weekend were postponed at the last moment and we got straight three days' off. I and my three friends packed our bags and headed for Mumbai.

We reached the Chennai airport on time and boarded the flight. We'd our seats in the last but two row. We put our luggage and settled in our seats. Some announcement was being made and one of my friends pointed at the announcer. I looked at her and said "Boy! She's got the looks."

Her name was Shirley. Unfortunately, she was catering to the front rows and came to our side of the plane very few times, but I made sure that whenever I needed anything I asked her only. By the time we reached Mumbai, I completely fell for her.

The plane landed at the Mumbai airport and people started to get down. Something was going in my mind. I was supposed to get down from the gate at the back, but she was standing near the front gate. I waited for sometime till the way to the front was clear. I was among the last few passengers to leave. The aisle was completely clear and I could see her standing at the end. I started walking towards the front door, but the path seemed never ending. I was completely blank about how to start the conversation. I reached near her and she was ready with an airhostess-smile.

Shirley: "Thank you, Sir"
Me: (Not sure from where this came) "Hey! Are you from Mumbai?"
Shirley: (She stepped up) "Yes"
Me: (Falling short of words) "Where in Mumbai?"
Shirley: "Bombay Central"
Me: It was nice meeting you!
Shirley: "Same here"
Me: (Sounding casual) "Can I have your phone number?"
Shirley: "Sorry Sir, we are not allowed to give our phone numbers."
Me: "Oh ok. Have a nice day! Bye"
Shirley: "Bye Sir"

I turned around and got down the stairs. I'd be lying if I say I wasn't disappointed. I know that it was not the perfect way to approach a girl, but it was my only chance.

PS: Later one of my friends found Shirley's profile on Orkut, so the hope continues.