Back on the east coast, I decided to spend a few days in Boston. After NYC, I wasn't sure if I was ready for the press of people there, but I was drawn to the rich history of the area. It was one of America's birth cities, and I looked forward to learning a little more about the culture.
I decided to take the subway to Boston Common, a large park in the middle of town. The subway was very confusing, but I found some helpful college kids who helped me navigate through the different colours and lines. Still, I was happy to emerge from the subway as I stepped out onto Tremont Street, at the edge of the park.
There were people milling about, but it wasn't as overwhelming as New York had been. In fact, everyone seemed very friendly. There were college kids lounging on the sun-soaked grass, and people playing Frisbee. Walking by a playground, I stopped to watch an old man making balloon characters for kids and laughed when he handed me a green dog. As I was leaving, a little girl's balloon popped and she started wailing. I gave her my dog and was rewarded with a huge hug. I laughed. She smelled like apples.
'You have a pretty smile,' the little girl said innocently. 'Want to come to the pool with us?'
I looked at her father for help. My English is very good, but I had no idea what she was talking about. The father grinned. 'I think you have a new friend,' he offered. 'This is Emma,' he said, running his fingers through her damp, blonde curls. 'My name is Max.' He held out his hand.
'Vivaan,' I said.
Emma giggled. 'That's a funny name,' she said. 'And you talk funny!'
'Emma!' her father scolded.
'It's okay,' I said. 'I am from a different country, far, far away,' I explained to the little girl.
'Where is your little girl?' she asked.
'Emma!'
I smiled. I was enjoying this spirited little creature very much. 'I don't have a little girl yet. I hope she is just like you when I do, though!'
She started tugging her father's hand. 'I guess we're heading to the pool,' Max said apologetically.' You are welcome to join us, though. It's so hot today, even I'm going to dip my feet!'
I agreed happily. After travelling for so long by myself, it was nice to have a little company again.
Emma slid her hand in mine and half-skipped, half-galloped as we made our way to the pool. It was actually a large stone area with a small fountain in the middle and only a few inches of water. Kids were scampering and splashing under the fountain. At the side of the pool, Emma dropped to the ground and yanked off her shoes, jumping in the water with a glorious splash.
Max and I followed her example. It was odd to be pulling off my shoes and socks in front of two strangers, but Max didn't seem to be bashful as he kicked off his sneakers.
We sat on the edge of the pool and dipped our feet as Emma played with her balloon dog in the water.
'Do you live here or are you visiting?' Max asked.
'I'm only visiting,' I replied. 'I wanted to see a little of the world so I quit my job in India and started to tour.'
'Wow,' he responded. 'How long will you be travelling?'
'I don't know,' I said. 'I would never go home but I will have to eventually. If travelling was free, they would never see me again.'
'They?' Max asked.
'My friends back in India,' I said.
'So, you're not married,' he responded.
'No,' I said. 'You?'
'Nope. Emma's mom and I split up soon after she was born. We realized we were better friends than spouses.'
'I'm sorry,' I said automatically.
'No, no. It's good for us. Of course, I don't see Emma as much as I would want, but the times we do have are precious. I cherish every second I have with her. So, there is nobody special you left behind?'
I thought of Meera. 'Yes, sort of,' I said, stretching my legs out and swirling my feet in the cool water. 'She's more like a friend, though.'
'But...' he pressed.
I shrugged. 'But there could be more,' I admitted. It felt good to finally admit that to someone, even if he was a complete stranger.
'Will she be there when you return, do you think?'
I sighed as I thought about it. 'I hope so.'
He reached over and patted me on the shoulder. 'Then, my friend, you might not want to take too much time to go back.'