The wanton rains

They came just as I was to leave, those torrential Mumbai rains.

I had gone to such lengths to dress up, they ruined my pains.

Despondently I peered out of the window, praying them to stop.

Damn! They bore down on earth steady, packed quite a wallop.

He would be waiting for me in the cafe that stood by the bay.

How in heavens name would I now step out and make my way?

The rains drummed down, beating a staccato rhythm on the city

I finally decided to venture out, brave the elements and be gritty.

I walked out onto the pavement and tried to hail a passing cab.

No cab stopped for poor me, even thought I offered double tab.

Eventually I started walking, under the umbrella I tried to huddle.

My errant step did not see the hole; down I went into the puddle.

Oh! Woe be me! For I was soaked in the filthiest of smelly sludge.

How could I go and meet him now for sweet nothings & hot fudge?

My day was ruined, so was my clothing, I’d just bought this dress

I could only turn back home now to salvage myself from this mess.

As I started walking back homeward, my cell phone signalled a call.

I grabbed at my bag, tried to dig it out and plonk had another fall.

This time I went down flat on my butt, a stiletto heel had broken

My umbrella blew off in the gale, Oh! It all left me quite shaken.

I decided to call off my romantic tryst; today was just not my day.

The wanton Mumbai rains had ensured I did not have my way.

They probably colluded with my Mother, for she liked the guy none.

Limping I reached back home crying & damn! There came out the sun.

Image – Bhawin Jagad via unsplash