Virk paused, locked his eyes with hers, smiled and said, ‘We are no match for them vis-à-vis equipment, machinery, etc. But remember, it’s always the man behind the machine who matters. And the Pakistanis are no match for us. They are only good at shoot-and-scoot tactics. But when it comes to man-to-man combat, we are far superior.’

But Amrit wasn’t done yet. She poured some more tea into his mug and pulled her chair closer to his. ‘When do you have to go?’

Closing the file gently, Virk put his head on the backrest and took a deep breath. In the meanwhile, Amrit inched even closer. Virk leaned forward and picked up the mug. He sipped the tea and took a bite of the sweet and salty home-made biscuits and then spoke in a normal tone, trying to sound as if it was all routine. ‘I only need a few sets of uniform, battle rig and night suits. My staff will take care of all that. You don’t need to worry. I don’t see this war lasting long. Both countries don’t have the financial muscle to stretch it beyond a point. Both nations have to pay a heavy price for Ayub Khan’s error.’

Virk paused, enjoying the look of attentiveness on his beautiful wife’s face. Before Amrit could shoot off her next query, he began again, ‘But Pakistan will suffer the most. By underestimating India, they have already etched their nation’s history with a humiliating defeat.’ His softly spoken words, filled with confidence, echoed in the room. Amrit felt the aura of his internal strength. Yet she was far from satisfied.

With her knees touching his, her fingers resting on his palms, she continued with her questions, ‘All I am asking you, dear Samarth, is when do you have to go?’

Virk looked at her, smiled, placed his left hand on hers and said, ‘Now.’

Amrit appeared to be taken aback but recovered immediately.

‘Okay, I will make all the arrangements. I will pack some dry snacks, your favourite biscuits and a few tins of condensed milk. When you get bored of hammering the Pakistani Army, these things will bring back memories of home. Please look after yourself, eat well and keep me posted whenever you can. I am sure you will come back victorious. I will pray for your success.’

He was surprised by her calm and composed response but felt compelled to place the tea mug on the table. He stood up. The furniture moved a little and the steel cutlery tinkled. But his eyes stayed glued on Amrit. ‘I have known you for a long time, Amrit. You are such a caring and concerned person. You are not only brave but also a very gifted woman who knows the essence of bravery. I am so grateful to have you as my better half, my soulmate.’ Taking a step forward, he cupped her face and hugged her.