Introduction to an Unexpected Encounter

Amidst the countless times I've visited CSD navy, army, and airforce canteens, I had never felt the way I did on October 15th, 2024, when I first visited the security office of Defence Kazakhstan Marg, New Delhi. This was the first time I experienced a profound feeling that had never been before. Usually, my visits to the canteens have been in different locations, the last being in 2022 during the winter when I was there for a health booster at Chanakyapuri INS India Africa Avenue. This visit was post-COVID-19, and the plan was not premeditated. After a day of shopping, I was sitting outside, engrossed in my thoughts, when I spotted a navy officer at the side door leaning against a bench with two trolleys filled with stuff, holding a diary in one hand, a folder in the other, and a smartwatch tied to his wrist. He was nonchalantly walking back and forth while dialing a number and saying, “Jai Hind sir.” He provided a detailed account of his official procedures to his superior, constantly checking my way.

Capturing the Moment

As he slowly moved towards me, I felt the gaze of a stranger, which was both intriguing and unsettling. I, with my menstrual cycle causing exhaustion, was reluctant to engage, especially when I had to overcome my shyness. He finally came close enough to look at me, saying “kya hua” (what happened) with a sudden turn of the head. My heart fluttered as we made eye contact, and I couldn’t help but think of him as handsome, with shaved cheeks, fair skin, and an amazing face shape. Moments like these are rare, and it was the first time in 11 years since my breakup that I felt this emotional connection with a stranger.

Unfolding the Encounter

After exchanging a brief moment, he went to the officer lounge, and my sister intervened to take me out. Later, when I was exiting through another lounge and saw him, I tried to establish a connection through a phone conversation, but the area was strictly no-smartphone zone. As we retraced our steps, my inquiries remained unfulfilled, but the video footage captured his prolonged gaze. Upon leaving the premises, I did not dwell on the encounter but felt a profound curiosity about him. The meeting with him was more than just a chance encounter; it stirred emotions that had been dormant for years. I am eager to know more about him and find a way to contact him.

Unveiling the Mystery of the Stranger

Despite knowing his rank was either lieutenant or lieutenant commander, I had no idea about his specific location or work premises. Sena Bhawan, Chanakyabagh, or another undisclosed area, and no one at the security office of Defence Kazakhstan Marg could help me, as the premises are secure and not to be disclosed. Despite these challenges, there is hope. I saw him on Tuesday, October 15th, 2024, at 3:30 PM and 3:55 PM, and today, Friday, it has been 12:05 AM since then. Could we ever meet again? I barely know his name, and if he were to read this, he wouldn't, but I am still hoping for a response.

Conclusion

Stranger encounters in public spaces can be unpredictable and emotionally charged. This encounter, however brief and unexpected, stirred feelings that had lain dormant for many years. It is these fleeting moments that make life interesting, and while we may never know if a reunion is possible, the memory of the encounter will linger, stirring the heart and prompting us to explore further.