Chapter 24
Plans for a future
ADITYA
“Where should I put these?”Kenny unpacks the new pillows we bought from the bazaar.The house came with furniture, but my lazy bum has been dragging my feet redecorating the rooms I am not using.The New Year’s party serves as a deadline to rid me of my tardiness.
“The pillow covers and bedsheets are in the jute bag.Please choose the one you like for your room and ask Kiron which ones they want in theirs.The guest room is already set for Sahil.We only need to add quilts from the cupboard and the floor rug.Check the roll beside the shopping bags.”I instruct Kenny while unpacking the kitchen supplies.My legs hurt from all the walking, but thankfully, we finished our shopping for the day.Now, we have the evening to put the finishing touches to our staycation before the gang starts arriving later in the night.“Ask Kiron when they are coming so I can get the ingredients together.They are on dinner duty today.”
Kenny shoots a text to Kiron and walks up the stairs to get his and Brian's room ready.“Kiron will be here by six,” he informs, as he reaches the top.
I pull up the list of supplies and check off the items for one final confirmation.The countertop is cleared of all the bags and groceries in the next half hour.
“The rooms have an excellent view.”Kenny walks back, carrying the packaging trash for disposal.
“Yeah, the house is on the corner of the hill with a 270-degree view of the valleys below.These sights cost me a few extra wads of money.”I stuff the chicken in the freezer.
Kenny walks over and squeezes my arm.“This is so beautiful and cosy.”He admires the living room.The teal L-shaped couch is arranged around the fireplace, opposite to which are three single sofa seats and a black bean bag.The centre is covered in a thick handmade red, ochre, and black striped jute-wool carpet – a housewarming gift from Jatin.Kenny has embellished the seating with colourful duvets and Jaipuri quilts.
“Will the quilts be enough?”He stuffs the torn paper and plastic wraps into the trash bag.
“Should be warm with six people in the room and a fire,” I reassure him.
“I can’t wait to see the surprise on everyone's faces.”
“What about Brian?Were you able to control your excitement?”I nudge him, as I chop the okra.
“Never doubt my acting skills.Brian has been bugging me for the inside scoop, but all he got is today's and New Year's eve dinner.”
“What?Why did you tell him about the 31st night?”I whine.The plan is to set things up around the fire pit for a bonfire and dinner, and to dance our way into the new year.
“Relax.No details were shared.I packed Brian's bag and brought his stuff with me.Besides, the bakery is open every day.Brian created a fuss over closing on the 31st, but I coaxed him to shut shop by six so he can be here by seven for the festivities.”
“Hmm, so we will miss him during the day.”
Kenny pouts at my reminder.“What other option do we have?”
“Why not pack lunch and meet Brian?Sahil and Jimmy also need to attend the gym.We can gather and go for a picnic to the trail up the hill behind the resort.”
“Brilliant, mate!Let's firm this up once Kiron arrives.”Kenny hops onto the high stool next to the counter and dices the tomatoes.
