“Is that you, Pheroze, in the black raincoat and matching umbrella? If you’re not, come no further…I have all kinds of disinfectant sprays in my survival kit,” warned Lady Flora when she noticed that a man dressed from head to toe in black waterproof apparel was heading towards her. She could barely recognise the face of the perceived stranger due to the mask that covered most of his face. Lady Flora was also adequately protected thanks to a massive white poncho that flattered her off-white vibe. ‘After all, who is to predict when this incessant rainfall in June will cease,’ she muttered a million times under her breath as she stood at her pedestal getting a taste of the more-than-usual downpour.

“It’s me, Lady Flora…Pheroze, your friend. Please don’t spray anything on me. It’s bad enough my vision has been tested severely with the large raindrops,” rued Sir PM. They decided to meet in the safety of an indoor set-up this time – inside St Thomas Cathedral. Her English officer friend had revealed a secret entrance to her during one of their earlier meetings, and she was more than happy to take refuge here each time the heavens opened. Sir PM grudgingly obliged to “seek favours from that English fellow” but agreed since he had no choice, really, what with the unpredictable rainfall. As usual Sir PM came with his little picnic bag - pudina chai-filled thermos and sponge tea cakes. They were perfect for the weather.