The Night Ride

With love's light wings did I o'er-perch these walls;

For stony limits cannot hold love out,

And what love can do that dares love attempt;

Therefore thy kinsmen are no let to me

- Romeo

*****

Many kisses to the girls for the cosy birthday dinner.

A hearty spread of sushi followed by a tall cup of night coffee kept me wide-eyed in bed for hours.

At 3am, an idea popped into my head and I had to do it then or never.

Heart pumping at the fear of waking my mother and being stopped, and trembling with anticipation of the journey ahead, I stealthily carried the bicycle out of the house. Armed with a thick chain (to lock up the bike later), I started rolling down Kaki Bukit at a scary speed. It being a slope, I couldn't really control the bike except to steer it away from manholes. I was wary that the covers might give way or worse, not covered at all. Stopping at every red light, even when there was no traffic, I turned into Ubi. I didn't want to become the victim of a speeding car that was taking advantage of the empty stretch.

Still going at full speed, I manoeuvered my way into Paya Lebar. I was so possessed by the speed demon, I actually rode over kerbs so high I think would intimidate me if I was in a clearer state of mind. And just 200m of my destination, I ultimately tripped over. Although I couldn't stop in time, I have anticipated the fall. Thus, I was able to jump out of the bike before I hurt myself badly. Still, I didn't escaped unscathed. My right calf is marked with painful bruises.

But I picked myself up quickly, like a brave little girl, and rode on to the gas station, where I bought a carton of milk and carrot juice. Then, momentarily crippled by the accident, I slowly pedalled to the office building behind the gas station.

The Boyfriend was still working at that hour in that building and I had brought some refreshments to him. He was very touched :)

*****

I'm clearing leave from now till Wednesday. Expect a few more posts before the dry season returns.