Me:Unfortunately, I do not come with a return policy. I’m a one-time purchase only.
She sent me the eye-roll emoji at least a dozen times.
Zaira:I wanna see your policy papers.
I chuckled.
Me:The paper mites got to them.
Zaira:How ancient are you, exactly?
Me:I had an on-and-off affair with Susan B. Anthony. That’s all I’m saying. Go figure.
She didn’t respond immediately, but when she did, it was with another picture. Nothersthis time, to my dismay. It was a picture of a dining table full of Indian food. Gravies, rice, desserts, beverages – you name it, and they were all present.
Zaira:If I look like Tweedledee after today, you can blame it on this monstrosity of a feast, and on my mum’s obsession for cooking.
Me:I'm sure you'd make a very sexy Tweedledee, babe. My inner Mad Hatter appreciates all your curves. Every single one of them.
Zaira:Aww, I love it when you talkAlice in Wonderlandto me.
I couldn’t help but laugh again.
Me:I can even dress like him if you want me to.
Zaira:You were going in the right direction just two seconds ago, but you screwed it all up by suggesting roleplay. You ruined my favorite childhood story for me, Underwood. How can I ever forgive you?
I put my tongue to my cheek.
Me:I meant for Halloween.
Zaira:Sure you did.
I chuckled.
Zaira:I have to go…
She followed that text with a series of crying-face emojis.
Me:Go have fun. Text me when you’re home.
Zaira:Mum’s gonna gimme a truckload of leftovers when I leave.
Me:I’ll need some extra pounds on me if I’m gonna survive the upcoming press junkets without falling into a coma, so bring in all the leftovers you can.
Zaira:Lol, you got it.
Zaira:Gotta go for real! Byeee! I love you, and I hope you have a kickass day on set.
I smiled.
Me:Thanks, babe. I love you too. See you tonight.
Zaira:Oh, you can count on it;–)
