The Colour Purple (apologies Alice Walker)

Today is my last day at work. It's a bright and beautiful day. I pulled out my new shirt saved for a special occasion. A gorgeous mix of purple and mauve, rich and striking in satin, it's a feel-good piece that does wonders for your mood and your day. It was from one of the shopping sprees alone where the shopping bags go straight to the cupboard and the ignorant hubby gets to see them only when worn.

As I get a couple of things ready for my trip to Delhi tomorrow, hubby shouts across. "I am going for a shower and then I am having my breakfast. I am not going to wait for you!"

"Ya ya, carry on." This is a normal scene in the household at mealtimes.
Next I am showered, dressed in my new gorgeous shirt, say a quick prayer and look for the husband. I await the reaction... admiration... accusation of shopping too much… or hurt at having not been shown it before. I form plausible answers in my mind. What is he going to say to this vision in purple!!

He as usual is playing the piano while waiting for me.
"Okay, I am ready and I am not waiting for you!" I announce.
"Oh, you didn't slice the strawberries for me!" he accuses me.

"You didn’t tell me. I'll do it now."

"No, no. I'll do it myself. If only you would pay some attention. You never hear what I say."

"Oh, stop cribbing. I am doing it now."

"No, you never hear. You are always too caught up with yourself."

"Oh really!!" I stand in front of him and smile.

"Yes, now when you’ll be in Delhi, away from me, take the time to think. Think how much you notice anything about your husband, remember anything I say..."

"Sure! Sure!"

We have our breakfast together talking about other things.

Then he gets back to work and I pick up my bag, keys, say bye and shut the door.

I am wondering if he'll ever notice even if I don't wear a shirt in front of him. Oh, that he will!