I was travelling solo, quiet common for someone who lived 3 states away from home.
There was an army couple next to me with about 2 year old daughter. And the baby was so cute and sweet she bonded with everyone and want to go to almost everyone who smiled at her. I was on the upper berth, usually I avoid talking to anyone while traveling(talking often bring me problems) but I was just being a nice co passenger and only replying to the questions and nothing else. The man would constantly bring his child towards me so she could play with me ..and I genuinely felt nice energy from the whole family there.
That night I developed fever and it was the only time I didn’t have any medicine on me. I knew his wife would have it(all women with a child does). I took the pill and woke up fine the next morning. That man was asking about my wellbeing(still no icky vibe). I had a large trolley bag and i knew it would be hard to carry it out the exit alone so I asked him “Brother can you help me with the bag” and he replied “Arey no trouble, I’ll take it out.” He indeed helped me with all my bags, while still holding his baby girl up his chest.
I was grateful and I said goodbye but the last thing he said was asked me “Can I have your number?” I was taken aback and confused so I asked him to repeat. He said “can I have your phone number”? My eyes went to his daughter who was smiling at me so radiantly. I was embarrassed for her.
I was like *dude you have the most beautiful girl right there with you and a lovely wife a few seats away*(on my mind).
I knew my face showed him the awkwardness he just put me in.
I should have been more stern I know but with the most awkward smile I could gather, I said “No, I cannot give you my number, Sorry” and turned around to leave, taking my gratitude along.
So my question is “what makes a man, a husband and a father ignore all the above titles(responsibilities) to go about asking a random woman for her number?”.
