Sushma knocked on her door. Madhu walked and opened the door.Madhu: You want something, mom?Sushma: I need the rest of the day with you.Madhu: I did n...t understand. What are you trying to say?Sushma pulled Madhu out of her room and brought her in the hall. Madhu saw Ajit, Rohan, Sid, Abhi, Ramu (the tailor), Om. Drinks kept on the table and everyone looking at Madhu with a smile.Sushma: All your lovers in one room, Madhu. I know you are sad but I think this will be the best farewell gift. I. Everything about her spoke of restrained dignity coupled with authority. She looked to be around 60 years. Her make-up was skilful and understated, her lips a soft coral pink, a tint of her cravat.There was bustle and childish voices as a group of passengers entered and made their way to the coffee bar. An elderly man, tall, well dressed, tanned and with white hair, accompanied by a woman, perhaps mid thirties with a soft resemblance to the man, and three children. A girl maybe 11 years and two. .." she trailed off with a blush and a giggle."Then what?" I asked, curious."Nothing, nothing." She blushed even further, giggling all the more."I get it," said Alice. "You got a boyfriend, and --" No!" -- you had sex." No-no-no!" Becky burst into tears."Dear Becky," said Alice. "We are all friends here. You can confide inus. We'll only tease you a little bit."This conversation was getting embarrassing -- naughty even. I just satstill, frozen, all nerves."No! I never had sex. Not even. "Well I can certainly see the resemblancebetween you and Paul, except you are very much more beautiful than heis." We all laughed."By the way, where is Paul this evening?"I explained about the conference and that it was a once in a lifetimeopportunity."I don't believe it! He's not really going to miss the parties is he? Iexpected him to make a big effort to force you to let him go to your hennight. I know you two are inseparable." I sort of forced him to go, Jez. The thought of him moping.