Sir PM was stumped. "That's preposterous. Considering aunty Behroze is still recovering from her fall while trying to avoid one of the big ones near her home in Bandra, during her morning walk. And she was sure that despite her Alzheimer's she had spotted at least another 50 within her neighbouhood. I am shocked at the casual behaviour towards citizen's complaints. What are they doing for the rest of the year with all that money in their coffers?" He was staring at a run-down building that displayed traces of stunning vernacular architecture. "See this hall, Lady Flora. You know, once upon a time, it was an important landmark where leaders like the great Lokmanya Tilak would assemble and share their vision of democracy with citizens. And now, it's nearly gone with no interest to revive it. Its façade has been blocked entirely because of what else, but the Metro work, so any chance of an upgrade seems bleak."

Lady Flora grimaced and struggled with every step. Walking around with the rain gear on these uneven roads wasn't her idea of a pleasant midnight stroll. "This was not a good suggestion, Pheroze. Let's turn back. We can see St Teresa's Church next time around. Tell Viegas that his midnight rummy party plan will have to wait. My newly restored and now sore ankles need immediate tending to. I must inform cousin Alexandria about this misadventure. She will be cross to hear that this stone-hardy pair couldn't negotiate Bombay's roads," exclaimed Lady Flora, writhing in pain. By now, she had to take the support of her friend as they turned around to make their way back towards Fort.

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As they reached familiar ground, the heavens opened. In a jiffy, Sir PM brought out a massive black raincoat. He looked like a spy from an early 1900s thriller. Lady Flora's face broke into a smile, finally. "It's from Bhendi Bazaar – durable, just like us Bombaywallahs; it has survived 100 monsoons," he chuckled, as he saw off his friend till she reached her pedestal. "Stay dry, Lady Flora, and the next time, I will take you shopping before the rains."

mid-day's Features Editor Fiona Fernandez relishes the city's sights, sounds, smells and stones...wherever the ink and the inclination takes her. She tweets @bombayana
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