Hello😀

Please feel free to skip this update till the middle part if it brings tears. I'm sharing this because I've cried more than three times while typing, translating, and proofreading. So, i don't have the heart to make you all cry again, especially since I already feel guilty for making you all emotional in the last two chapters. If you want to avoid tears, you can skip ahead to the middle part of the chapter. But don't forget to vote. Hehe.. ❤️

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa🚴‍♀️💜🦋

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Aayush

I was on the verge of falling asleep, hoping to soothe my drained mind and heart, when a faint sound of coughing from outside the room jolted me awake.

Throwing off the duvet, I grabbed the vest draped over the couch, slipped it on while heading out, and followed the sound. It was coming from my father's room.

Swallowing hard, I didn't hesitate. I walked over, opened the door, and peeked inside. There he was, leaning against the headrest, a flask in his hand, coughing repeatedly. Without a second thought, I hurried in and asked,

"Enn..ennaachu?"

(Wh..what happened?)

He shook his head with a faint smile but continued coughing. Concerned, I helped him drink some water, my hand steadying the bottle.

Hesitant, I reached out and gently placed my hand on his back, caressing it softly as he drank.

Then, I noticed it-a tear escaping from the corner of his left eye. It made my chest tighten, and my legs gave way as I sank to my knees beside his bed, crying out loud.

At that moment, I was firm,

Cry and let it all out, Aayush!

One hand rested on his lap while the other clenched the mattress in an attempt to steady my swirling emotions.

The vulnerability I felt in that moment was deeper than I had expected.

His hand rested gently on my head, a silent comfort amidst the shared sorrow.

"Seri, kanna. Podhum.. nee yendha thappu pannala, da"

(Alright, dear. That's enough... You didn't do anything wrong)

I shook my head, unable to find the words.

How could he say that so easily?

I had caused him more pain than my mother's illness ever could have.

"Aayush"

He murmured, his voice soft yet steady.

His fingers threaded gently through my hair, and it broke me even further.

How unlucky was I?

But, no, I had made myself the unluckiest boy-no, man-alive.

What a fool I was!

"Aayush, appa've paaru, pa.. alugaadha, da"

(Aayush, look at Appa, pa... Don't cry, da)

He shifted in his place, letting his legs dangle off the bed, and gently guided my head onto his lap. Hesitant yet yearning, I wrapped my arms around his waist, burying my face into his lap as if seeking solace I thought I didn't deserve.

"Aayush..."

"Ko..konja neram al..aludhukuren, p..pa"

(Let me cry for a little while, p..pa)

He caressed my hair softly, offering me a comforting and much-needed silence. I sat there, curled up against my father, something I had missed since childhood.

I had always thought that if my father hadn't done what he did, I would have been there with him, wrapped in his love and affection, just like my classmates and friends who shared that closeness with their fathers.

But now, I understood something I hadn't before,

I wasn't unlucky.

I had made myself unlucky.

"Nee yedhu varaikum, yedhula irundhu naethu naan Seetha kitta sonnadhu ellaam kaetta'nu enakku therila, Aayush. Aana naan adhellaa unkitta ivlo varshamaa yen sollaama irundhen'nu nee ippo enna sandhega pada kooda vaaip.."

(I don't know when you started listening, or when you stopped listening yesterday when I told everything to Seetha, Aayush. But, you might doubt me for not saying any of this to you all these ye..)

I immediately showed him my teary, messy face, causing him to stop his words midway.

"Ippovum naan ungala sandhega pattaa naan'laa yedhukkum thagudhi aanavan illa, pa"

(Even now, if I doubt you, I am not a person worthy of anything, pa)

He stared at me for a few seconds, then gave me a smile, gently wiping the tears from my face and neck with his bare palm.

"Unna nee ivlo thappaa nenaikura alavukku nee yendha thappum pannala, Aayush"

(You're thinking you've done so much wrong, but Aayush, you haven't done anything wrong)

I hiccupped, staring at him, overwhelmed by the moment.

"Unmaiya solla ponaa, ippo motha sandhoshathayum oruthar naala enakku thirumba kuduthirukka Aayush nee"

(If I were to speak the truth, Aayush, you've given me all the happiness and more than anyone else could ever give)

He handed me a bottle of water, and as I drank, I couldn't stop staring at him. Tears flowed from my eyes, relentless, like a river. I couldn't control it; the overwhelming emotions were more than I had anticipated.

"Seetha"

He said, just as I finished drinking, still staring at him. He closed the cap of the bottle and chuckled softly at me.

"Engerndhu puduchuttu vandha avala?"

(Where did you bring her from?)

A slight smile tugged at my lips as I looked at his smiling face, and the reason behind it-My...

My Seetha.

"Apdiye un amma dha"

(She is just like your mother)

I gulped hard, trying to push the lump in my throat down.

"Height konjam kammi'le Jaya've vida?"

(Isn't her height a bit shorter than Jaya's?)

I nodded my head at him.

"Seri.. naan yen unkitta idhellaa ivlo varshamaa sollala'nu theriyumaa? Naane sollavaa?"

(Alright... do you know why I haven't said all this to you for so many years? Should I say it myself?)

He wiped the tears from my left cheek, but they didn't stop. He continued, wiping the tears from my right cheek, and then said,

"Anniku night unna un amma avakoodaye kooptu poyirulaam'nu dha nenachaa. Aana naan unna puduchu iluthutten. Ava poitaa'nu thirumbi nee enna nelamai'le irundha nu paakumbodhu ennaala onnume appo realize panna mudiyala, Aayush. You were covered in blood. Naan unna puduchu iluthu un amma've kaapathalaam'nu nenachadhu naala, unna paakaama vittuten. Un head angerndha concrete'le pattu retha kaayathoda mayangi kedandha. And that was the first moment, the beginning of my guilty life"

(That night, your mother thought of taking you away from me too, but I pulled you away from her. In the process of trying to save her life, I didn't stop to consider what was happening to you. When I realized she had left me, I turned around and saw you on the floor. At that moment, I couldn't comprehend anything, Aayush. You were covered in blood. Your head had been slammed against the concrete, blood oozing from your wounds. When I pulled you away from her, I didn't focus on you at first. I only focused on her. And that was the first moment, the beginning of my guilty life)

I stared at him, placing my hands on his lap. He gently caressed my hair, pushing it back from my forehead, and smiled softly at me.

"Enna mannichiru, Aayush"

(Forgive me, Aayush)

I frowned at him, shaking my head, but I couldn't find the words to speak.

"En paiyana naan nalla paathukala, pa. Adha naan romba late'ah dha realize pannen"

(I didn't take good care of my son, pa. I realized that too late)

He sobbed, and I cried along with him, clutching his hands.

So, he exhaled deeply, blinked back his tears, and gently cupped my left cheek.

"Alright... no more... wait"

He took a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly for a moment.

"Ne..neenga stress aagikka venaa.. namma innoru naal kooda.."

(You... you don't need to stress. We can talk about this another..)

He shook his head, stopping me.

"No, no.. naan en marumagalukku promise panni kuduthirukken ellaame solleerven'nu"

(No, no... I promised my daughter-in-law that I will tell you everything)

He smiled at me. I frowned, but I didn't ask anything.

"Rendu naal apro dha nee kannu mulucha. Aana nee yen Aayush amma enga'nu enkitta kekkave illa?"

(After two days, you regained consciousness. But why, Aayush, why didn't you ask me where your mother was?)

I gulped, and replied,

"Naan kan mulikkumbodhu amma en pakkathula irukka maataanga'nu enakku yerkanave theriyum, pa"

(When I would regain consciousness, I knew my mother wouldn't be by my side, pa)

"Epdi?"

(How?)

"Amma enna balcony'ku kooptu pogumbodhey solleetaanga. Namma saamy kitta poga porom'nu solleetu dha pa enna anga kooptu ponaanga"

(Before she went to the balcony, she had told me that we were going to see the god. Only then did she carry me there, pa)

He smiled bitterly.

"Naan sonnen, pa. Naan varle'nu, aana amma kekkala, pa. Neenga engala edhaadhu panneervinga'nu sonnaanga.. apro oru bag kuduthu adha en room'le secret'ah vachura sonnaanga.. adha naan en toys bag'ku keela ungalukku theriyaama vachirundhen. Adhula dha.."

(I told her I wouldn't come, pa, but amma didn't listen to me. She said you would do something to us. Then she gave me a bag and told me to keep it secretly in my room. I kept it under my toys bag without you knowing. That's where...)

"Ava enakku yedhiraa eludhuna letters?"

(The letters she wrote against me?)

I lowered my gaze and nodded my head.

"Mmm.. amma, paiyan epdilaa vela paathirukkinga enakku theriyaama?"

(Mmm... Both amma and the son did all the work without me knowing?)

He chuckled, but I couldn't bring myself to smile or even face him.

"Apro ennaa.... Mm.. nee enna verukura'ngradhu enakku unnoda 4th birthday annike theriyum. Cake kooda ooti vidala nee enakku"

(Then what... I knew you were loathing me since your 4th birthday. You didn't even feed me a cake)

He said teasingly, but I shed silent tears.

"Aayush"

He called me, but I didn't lift my face.

"Aayush. Inga paaru. Appa paaru"

(Aayush. Look here. Look at appa)

He spoke as if I were still his little child and gently cupped my left cheek, making me look at him.

"Ippovum naan soldren. Unmela yendha thappum illa. Un amma melayum illa. Nadandhadhu nadandhiruchu. Adhudha nadakkanum'nu irundhaa namma enna Aayush panna mudiyum? Un amma kooda nenachu paathirukka maataa da avalukku ipdi oru disorder varum, vaazhkai'eh thiruppi podum'nu. Avlo sandhoshamaa enkooda kalyanam pannikittaa ther..theriyumaa?"

(I am telling you now. There is no mistake on your part. And there is no fault with your mother either. What happened, happened. If it was meant to happen, then what could we have done, Aayush? Your mother wouldn't have known either that such a disorder would come into our life and flip everything upside down. Do you know how happily she got marr..married to me?)

His stammering voice and trembling hands, holding my palms, made me cry harder, and I broke down again, saying,

"Pa, please. Ungala stress aakikkaama enna sollanum naalum sollunga. Illanaa venaa, pa. Please.."

(Pa, please. Don't stress yourself. If there's anything you need to say without making yourself stressed, tell me. Otherwise, don't. Please...)

"Stress? Stress ellaa onnu illa, kanna. Avala nenachaale aluga dha varum. Nenachu paaru.. ava enna da panna? Ava enna thappu pannaa? ..Nee.. nee enna Aayush thappu panna?"

(Stress? There is no stress, my dear. When I think about her, it hurts. Think about it... what did she do? What mistake did she make? ...And you... what mistake did you make, Aayush?)

I placed my hands on top of his hands, which were cupping my cheeks, and asked,

"Neenga enna pa thappu panninga? Ennoda ellaa hurtful aana words'ayum kaettutu ivlo varsham adhellaa epdi pa thaangeetu irundhinga?"

(what mistake did you make, pa? How could you have kept hearing all those hurtful words from me for all these years?)

He smiled at me.

"Nee enna da apdi peseeta? Apdi pesunaalum.. naan yen da thappaa nenachu, adha thaangeetu vaazhanum'nlaa nenaikanum? Nee en paiyan, Aayush. Ennoda kutty Aayush da nee. Enga retham da. Unna naan yen da thappa nenaikka poren?"

(What wrong did you say, da? Even if you said all those things, why should I think about it all the time and hurt myself? You are my son, Aayush. You're my little Aayush. Why should I think wrong about you?)

He jerked my face gently in his hold, a wide smile forming through his tears, and I couldn't hold back anymore-I broke down into tears once more.

"Kannaa. Podhum please. Nee alugaama kaettaa dha naan solluven"

(Dear, enough please. If you listen to me without crying, only then will I say everything to you)

I shook my head.

"Mu..mudila pa. Naan unga edathula irundhirundhaa naan.."

(I... I couldn't. If I had been in your place, I couldn't have thought of what I would h..)

He closed my mouth with his hand, stopping my words, and shook his head.

"Venaa, kannaa. Naan un amma've nenachu, enga kadhal, vaazhka'nu nenachu varutha pattadha vida, nee epdiyaadhu unnoda andha mogatha maatheetu sandhoshamaa irundhura maatiyaa'nu naan nenachu varutha pattadhu dha Aayush adhigam"

(No, dear. When I thought about your mother, our love, and our life, the pain I felt was nothing compared to what I prayed to see the smile on your face, Aayush)

I stared at him, still shedding tears.

"Un amma kitta naan oru naalum idha pathi kekkaadha naal illa. Unakku nalla life amaiyanum, nee happy'ah irukkanum apdilaa dha kettutu iruppen. Kuduthuttaa paaru. Enakku'nu oru ponnu, namma veetukku'nu oru ponnu vara pogudhu. Un amma kudutha oru.. enna soldradhu.. oru varam.. oru varam'ah dha naan avala paakuren, Aayush. Yaekkam ellaa poga pogudhu, Aayush. Mark my words"

(Not a single day passed without me asking your mother about this. All I ever wanted was for you to have a good life and be happy. Look, she gave us... a daughter for me, a woman for our home. She's something precious your mother gave us, Aayush. Everything will fall into place. Mark my words.)

He said enthusiastically, and I stared at him with a slight smile, though the tears continued streaming down my cheeks.

"Seri.. sollu, letter paathu dha appa mela kovam vandhadhaa?"

(Alright... tell me, was it the letter that made you angry at me?)

I shook my head at him.

"Illa, pa. Namma veetukkulla ungalukku vara arguments, naama naraya edathukku pono'le? Anga ungalukkulla vara sanda, amma unga munnaadi alaradhu.. apro neenga office ponadhum, amma en madila paduthu aludhirukkaanga, pa"

(No, pa. It was the arguments that used to happen in our house. Remember the places we used to go? The fights that happened there, amma crying in front of you... and then, after you left for the office, amma used to lie on my lap and cry, pa)

"Enna'nu solli ava aludhirukkaa unkitta? Naan ungala kolla poren'na?"

(What did she say while crying to you? That I was going to kill you both?)

"Mhum. Vaazhanum'nu aasai'ah irukku'nu aluvaanga"

(Mhum. She would cry saying she wanted to live)

His eyes welled up with tears and he let them fall silently.

"Naan adha neenga yedho thappu pandra naala dha Amma apdi sonnaanga'nu naethu varaikum nenachuttu irundhen, pa. I'm sorry, pa"

(I always thought until yesterday that she said those things because you were doing something wrong, pa. I'm sorry, pa)

I said, my voice breaking with guilt.

"Deii, naan solleeten. Nee guilt'ah feel pannaadha. Dont ask sorry again. Unmela thappu illa Aayush"

(Deii, I told you already. Don't feel guilty. Don't ask sorry again. There's no fault on you, Aayush)

He said firmly.

"Illa,pa. Neenga enna sonnaalum naan pannadhu thappu dha, pa. Periyavan aana apromaadhu naan purinjirundhirukanum, pa. Appovum naan loosu maadhiri ungala kaaya padutha dha senjirukken. Adhukku yethana sorry kettaalum pathaadhu, pa"

(No, pa. No matter what you say, what I did was wrong, pa. I should have understood after I grew up, pa. Even then, like a fool, I only hurt you more. No matter how many times I apologize, it won't be enough, pa)

"Naane un edathula irundhirundhaalum apdidha da panneerpen. Nee yedhuvum guilt'ah feel pannaadha, Aayush. Please. Un amma appo dha happy'ah iruppaa"

(If I had been in your side, I would have done the same thing, Aayush. You shouldn't feel guilty. Please, don't carry that burden. Your mother wouldn't be happy)

He is still thinking about her happiness-his love, his wife, my mother.

"Naan romba periya thappu panneeten, pa"

(I made a very big mistake, pa)

"Seri.... adhellaa nenachuttu innum evlo naal da irukka poro? Don't you want to live a happy life?"

(Alright... you've thought about it, but how many more days will you keep dwelling on this? Don't you want to live a happy life?)

"Aana, enakku innum yethana naal aanaalum ungalukku naan panna thappu dha pa nyaabagam varum"

(But even if it takes many more days, I will be always thinking that I did something wrong to you, pa)

"Adhellaam marakura maadhiri oru naal varum, Aayush. The bad things will soon pass. The bad days will turn into good ones. Kettadhu ellaame nenachu oru naal namma sirikka porom paaru. Trust me"

(All of this will fade away with time, Aayush. The bad things will soon pass. The bad days will turn into good ones. Just remember, one day, we'll laugh about all this. Trust me)

I finally took a deep breath, and he smiled at me, asking,

"Amma epdi irukkaa? unnoda andha photo frame'le?"

(How is mom doing? How's she in that photo frame?)

I widened my eyes.

"Theriyumaa? En room'le amma photo irukkardhu?"

(You know? There's a photo of mom in my room?)

"Yes. College second year'le dhane vaanguna?"

(Yes. You got it during your second year of college, right?)

"Mm"

"Nenachen. Anniku nee morachukutte eduthuttu pona un amma've en kannula padaama"

(I knew it. That day, you quietly took your mother's photo without letting me notice)

I gulped.

"Vidraa. Amma enna soldraa?"

(Let it be. What does Amma say?)

"Therila, pa. Pesa'laa maataanga. Aana indha college'le saendha apro oru sila naal dhideernu, avanga enna suthi enkittaye irukka maadhiri thonum. Adhukku munnaadi naan kuduchuttu irukkumbodhu'laa koopduven aana pesavum maataanga, avanga presence'uhm enakku feel aagaadhu. Evlo kooptaalum onnume thonaadhu, pa. Kathi aluganum pola irukkum, adhukkaana space enakku drinks pannumbodhu mattum dha kedaikura maadhiri irukkum. Adhaa pa kudichen"

(I don't know, Pa. She doesn't talk to me. But after I joined this college, for a few days suddenly, it feels like she's around me all the time. Before that, when I used to pour a drink, I'd call her, but she wouldn't respond. I couldn't even feel her presence. No matter how much I called, I didn't feel anything, Pa. It felt like I wanted to scream and cry, but I only got that space when I drank. That's why I drank, Pa)

"Mmm.. vali'eh marakka kudikanum'naa naan evlo varshamaa da kudikardhu?"

(Mmm... If drinking is supposed to make me forget the pain, then how many years have I been drinking, da?)

I lowered my gaze to his feet, unable to meet his eyes.

"Adhu oru kaaranam dha Aayush. You're adddicted to drinks. But.. ippo yedhuvum illa'le? Kathi kathi alugardhu'laa naan kekuradhu illaye ippo. Sirichu sirichu pesuradhu dha kekuren"

(That was just one reason, Aayush. You're addicted to drinks. But now... there's nothing, right? I don't hear that sharp, piercing crying anymore. All I hear now is your cheerful laughter)

I finally let out a soft chuckle and wiped my tears away with my hands. He joined me, chuckling warmly.

"Thorathi thorathi vandhu love pandraa, pa. Ava enakku student, pa. Sorry. Naan thappu panneetanaa? Naan avala apdi paathirukka koodaadhaa?"

(She keeps coming back, showing her love, pa. She's my student. I'm sorry. Did I make a mistake? Should I not have looked at her that way?)

"Epdi paathirukka koodaadhaa?"

(How shouldn't you have seen her?)

"Pa.."

I lifted my face to see him, trying to suppress his laugh.

"Pa, please.. sollunga. Student'a oru professor'ah naan apdi paakuradhu thappu dhane?"

(Pa, please.. tell me. Is it wrong for me to act like that with a student as a professor?)

"Ava dha ippo un student illaye?"

(She is not your student anymore, right?)

I stared at him in disbelief.

"Ellaathayume solleerchaa?"

(She told you everything, didn't she?)

He laughed, and I chuckled, shaking my head as I stared at his joyful face.

I wished I could give him this happiness forever.

"Sonnaa.. seri, ava student illa'le apro enna?"

(Yes. Tell me... she is not your student anymore, right? Then what?)

"Ex-student dhane pa?"

(She is still my ex-student, right?)

"Adhukku ippo enna pa pandradhu?"

(So, what should we do about it now?)

"Paa.."

He smiled.

"Adhellaa oru pretchanayum illa. Paathukalaa vidu"

(There's no problem with that. Just go with the flow)

I just hummed, feeling a pat on my cheek while seeing his reassuring smile.

"Nee un amma mela romba paasam vachirundha, ippovum vachirukka, Aayush. Adhanaala dha avalukku ipdi oru disorder irundhadhu therinjaa nee romba kavala paduva, apro enakkum guilt'ah dha Aayush irundhadhu. Avala paathukura nerathula unna paathukkaama vittutane'nu ippo varaikum enakku thonum. Adhaaa, nee thittunaalum seri, enna thappaa purunjukuttaalum seri, enakku unkitta unmaiya solla appovum bayamaa dha irundhadhu. Nee thitturadhulaa worth'ngra maadhiri dha da irundhadhu. Adhunaalaye unakkaa theriya varumbodhu theriyattum'nu vittuten. But Elango enakku first heart attack varumbodhu kettaan, enna dha pretchana sollunga'nu. Appo sonnen un amma suicide pannikittaa'nu. But that's not right actually. Her own imaginary world and the person made her do that. Ava suicide'laa pannala, Aayush"

(You always had so much love for your mother, and you still do. Because of that, when you found out she had such a disorder, you would have been really worried. And I too felt guilty. Every time I saw you, I couldn't stop thinking that I had failed to take care of you. Even though you were scolding me, even if you thought I was wrong, it was hard for me to speak the truth to you. That's why I stayed quiet. But when Elango asked me what was the problem when I got my first heart attack, I told him about your mother. But that's not the truth. It was her own imaginary world that led her to that, and the person who influenced her in that world. She didn't commit suicide, Aayush)

"Aama, pa. Aana yen pa Suganya, unga ex-girlfriend pathi sonninga amma kitta? Neenga sonna naala kooda apdi.."

(Yes, but why did you talk about Suganya, your ex-girlfriend, in front of mom? Because of that, she may have...)

"Illa, pa. Avalukku Suganya pathi nalla theriyum. Accident'le yerandhuttaanga, apro naan adhula depression'ku poiten. Enna andha deppression'le irundhu veliya kondu vandhadhey un amma dha. Nadandhadhu ellaame disorder naala dha Aayush. Adhu genetical disorder. We can't help it"

(No. She knows well about Suganya. She died in an accident, and that's when I fell into depression. But it was your mom who pulled me out of that depression. Everything that happened was because of the disorder, Aayush. It's a genetic disorder. We can't help it)

"Ohh. Ippo amma oda brother enga pa irukkaanga?"

(Ohh. Where is mom's brother now, dad?)

He shook his head at me.

"Enakku theriyaadhu"

(I don't know)

"Unga appa, amma ungakitta ippo peseetaanga'laa, pa?"

(Did your dad and mom talk to you now, dad?)

"Pesa try pannaanga aana naan pesala, kannaa. Avlo kashtathulayum kooda irundha aarudhal sollaama, innoru kalyanam panniko'nu sonnaanga. Adhaa yaarume venaa neeyum, un amma oda ninaivugal mattum enakku podhum'nu vandhutten"

(They tried to talk to me, dear, but I didn't. Even amidst all that pain, without offering any comfort, they suggested I marry someone else. That's when I decided, no one else for me. Just you and your mom's memories are enough for me)

I smiled at him.

"Unga appa amma've neenga miss panlayaa, pa?"

(Didn't you miss your parents, dad?)

"Avangala miss panni naan anga poyirundhaa, unna miss panneerpen. Adhunaala avanga thoughts'laa ippo varaikum enakku vandhadhu illa, Aayush"

(If I had gone there missing them, I would've missed you. That's why their thoughts haven't come to me till now, Aayush)

I held his feet with my hands, feeling overwhelmed by guilt. It felt like it was crushing me, but he was making it lighter.

Even now, he cares more about my happiness than his own.

"Sorry pa"

"Don't be sorry, Aayush. Naan yerkanave solleeten. There's nothing wrong on your part. Nee nalladhu dha da panneerka. Vidu. Past is past. Present'le nallaarko'le? Podhum adhu. Thoonga poriyaa?"

(Don't be sorry, Aayush. I've already told you, there's nothing wrong on your part. You've only done good. Leave it-what's done is done. Are you doing well now in the present? That's all that matters. Are you going to sleep now?)

He asked me, gently running his hand through my hair.

"Naan inniku unga kooda paduthukataa? Enakku thooko varla, namma konja neram peseetu irukkalaam"

(Can I sleep with you today? I'm not feeling sleepy, we can talk for a while)

He smiled, and I helped him settle down on the bed before lying beside him.

We talked, laughed, and smiled together until he eventually drifted off to sleep.

In that moment, I silently promised to always keep him happy, cherishing the reason behind this joy-my Seetha.

I felt like the luckiest person on earth now, surrounded by two souls who gave all their love to me and prioritized my happiness above their own.

As the last drops of tears slipped down my cheeks, I smiled and closed my eyes, falling asleep beside him.

The next morning, Elango's gasp brought us out of our embrace as we had prepared breakfast together.

"Enna'ley nadakudhu inga?"

(What is happening here?)

"Shooo. Deii, yen da ipdi karadi maadhiri nadandhukura nee?"

(Shoo. Deii, why are you behaving like a grumpy bear?)

Appa chided him while I chuckled, stirring the curry in the pan.

"Yaaru? Naanaa pa?"

(Who? Me?)

"Nee dha da karadi. Yen da vandha?"

(Yes, you're the bear. What brought you here?)

"Sabaash appa sabaash!"

(Well done, Dad! Well done!)

We just ignored him and continued preparing breakfast, letting him blabber in shock.

As I watched my father carefully transferring the curry into the bowl, I wrapped my arms around his shoulders from behind and said,

"Neenga poi utkaarunga pa. Naan ellaam eduthuttu varen"

(Go and rest down, Dad. I'll take care of everything and bring it all )

"Naanum eduthuttu varen da. Vaa.."

(I'll help you. Come on)

He took the plates and bowl, and I grabbed the chutney and dosas, following him while ignoring the case still standing there with wide eyes and mouth.

"Deii enna da nadakudhu? Appaaa enna nadakudhu inga?"

(Hey, what's happening? Dad, what's happening here?)

He sat beside me, glancing at Appa for an answer. Meanwhile, I dipped a piece of dosa into the mint chutney and sambar, savoring it before popping it into my mouth. With my other hand, I scrolled through my phone,

'Good night' and 'Good morning' messages, along with a brief 'I'm leaving. Where are you?' messages.

Smiling to myself, I swiped the message notifications from her aside and shifted my focus to the college group chat, scanning for updates on the placement classes for the soon-to-be 4th-year students.

But, my thoughts were interrupted by Appa's voice, saying,

"Nee dha da nadandhuttu irukka"

(It's you who's walking around)

Appa joked, making me chuckle as I set my phone aside and shifted my gaze to him. He tried to suppress a smile while glancing at Elango, who asked,

"Enna pa orey naal'le avana maadhiri maareetinga?"

(What, Dad? How did you end up becoming like him in just one day?)

I smiled, adjusting the strap of my vest on my shoulder.

"Appa son kulla aayiram porutham irukkum unakkenna da?"

(Appa and son share many secrets. What's wrong with that for you?)

"Appa neenga meendum meendum enna asinga paduthuringa, pa"

(Appa, you keep embarrassing me again and again)

He whined, and I mumbled under my breath,

"Therinjum yen macha pesura?"

(Then why are you talking again and again, dude?)

He turned and glared at me, but I gave him an innocent smile.

"Ipdi sirichu dhane kavutha?"

(You made him forgive you by smiling like this? Didn't you?)

I glared at him playfully and had my breakfast. But, he continued to blabber making appa shook his head at his silly acts and dramas.

After we finished eating, we went to get ready for the function.

I wore a navy blue kurta with white pants that my father had given me on my previous birthday, even though I hadn't accepted it at that time. Today, I decided to wear it, with a full smile on my face.

I combed my hair, neatly folded the sleeves of my kurta above my elbows, put on a watch, and a black evil-eyes beads bracelet next to the black and red thread I already wore. I then shoved my wallet and phone into my pockets, ran my fingers through my hair, and stepped out to find Appa and Elango waiting for me in the living hall.

I smiled at Appa, and he smiled back at me, his eyes filled with a cloud of emotions.

Understanding him, I tapped Elango's head, and we fought over some silly reasons until appa chuckled. We then headed to our neighbour's house in the car, which had once belonged to my father but was now ours.

But as we got closer to the house entrance, we were greeted by the softest melody. I turned to look at appa, who was smiling, but a soft, surprised gasp escaped my mouth when I saw her.

The beautiful girl who had been in my embrace yesterday was sitting there, singing the melody of,

"Azhaipaayuthey Kanna"

Her voice was so pleasant, and she looked even more stunning than usual today.

The red-and-white saree she wore was a bit-well, maybe more than a bit-revealing, and I couldn't help but scratch my brow, feeling an urge to pull her closer. I tried hard to suppress something-maybe a blush crept onto my cheeks as memories of the days we were close flooded my mind. But now, I thought,

Dhoorathula ninnu paakuradhum nallaa dha irukku'le?

(Isn't it nice to look at her from a distance?)

I quietly admired her voice while sneaking glances at certain spots on her that were visible through her white saree.

Biting my lips, I suppressed a smirk that was threatening to form, scratching the center of my chest with my fingers before they caught her gift-the locket-with a smile.

But just then, her gaze met mine. I smiled at her shocked expression, and she quickly closed her eyes again, her face now a little nervous-so cute.

I couldn't help but chuckle before turning to Appa, who was speaking to an elderly man sitting in a chair.

I looked back at her and saw her smiling shyly, gathering courage. My eyes roamed through the hall, taking in the people around us, including her parents, who were deeply absorbed in her song.

So, I winked at her, and she tried hard to suppress a blush, but it was clear she was struggling.

Then, as she was about to finish her song, I turned back and called out to my father.

"Pa. Inga vaanga"

(Pa, come here)

But he was so busy talking.

"Appa"

He turned to me, at last.

"Inga vaanga"

(Come here)

I turned back into the hall just in time to see her finishing the song. She opened her eyes, scanning the room, and then froze when she saw our smiling faces. I felt appa's arm slide around my shoulder, and her eyes widened in surprise at the sight of us together.

With a slightly awkward smile, she thanked everyone and stood up, hiding her emotions.

I smiled at her. She looked so overwhelmed seeing us together, and it was clearly reflected in her thankful, glistening eyes.

Moving beside her parents, she touched their feet to receive their blessings before standing next to them once more. Then, she turned to look at us, her gaze lingering in my eyes.

"En marumagalaa ivlo neram paadeetu irundhaa?"

(Was my daughter-in-law the one who was singing all this time?)

I heard him ask. I chuckled, still holding her gaze, but didn't answer him as her lips curved slightly before widening. She averted her eyes from mine and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, blushing.

I smiled at her, biting my lower lip, but hissed when Appa pinched my waist.

"Shh. Yen pa?"

(Why, dad?)

"Yen da nee enkitta sollave illa ava nalla paaduvaa'nu?"

(Why didn't you tell me that she would sing so well like this?)

"Marandhutten, pa"

(I forgot, pa)

He glared at me playfully and entered inside to bless the mother-to-be while I received a call from her. I looked at her, but she didn't lift her gaze from my father, who was now blessing the woman. I smiled, leaned against the wall beside the door, and answered the call, noticing Elango speaking with some young woman.

"Hello"

I heard her whisper as soon as I answered the call.

"Enna student madam, red-and-white saree, nethila kutty pottu, malli poo, kai ku valayal, kaal ku kolusu. Aldringlae"

(Student, madam, what is this? Red-and-white saree, small bindi on the forehead, jasmine flowers in the hair, bangles on the hands, anklets on the feet. You're making someone fly)

"Yaara aldraen?"

(Whom am I making fly?)

"Enna dha"

(Me)

I said, watching her shake her head and blush, lowering her gaze. I smirked and said playfully,

"Amma paakuraanga paaru"

(Amma is watching you)

She immediately changed her blushing face into a normal pouty expression.

And I burst out into laughter.

"Cute'uh di nee"

(You're so cute, di)

She clicked her tongue.

"Seri enna nadakkudhu? Appa'uhm, paiyanum saendhaacha?"

(Okay, what's happening? Did Appa and son get together?)

I smiled and said,

"Mm, nee dha naethu promise vaangeetu poyirukiye rendu perukittayum. Apro epdi pesaama, saeraama irukka mudiyum?"

(Mm, are you the one who asked a promise from both of us yesterday and went, right? Then how can we just stay quiet and distant without talking?)

I saw her smiling, with her dimple visible, calling me to cherish it, but her fluttering, blinking eyes made me concerned.

"Seetha..."

"Meet panlaamaa? Veetukku pinnaadi vare'laa?"

(Shall we meet? Will you come behind the house?)

And I don't know why she's loving me so intensely like this!

Apdi naan unakku enna di pannen?

(What have I done to you?)

I wondered, but my thoughts were broken when,

"Hel.."

"Not until you look into my eyes and give me your smile"

I ordered, while she looked restless, glancing around the hall, clearly avoiding me alone.

"Professor"

She whispered in a low voice.

"Enakkaaga?"

(For me?)

I pleaded, lowering my voice as well, my eyes fixed on her.

She gulped and gazed at me slowly before giving me a smile. I smiled back and then blew her a kiss. She chuckled, declined the call, then bent down, said something to her mother, and got a nod in response.

Then, she grabbed the end of her saree pallu from behind and walked past me, heading towards the back of the house. I let out a deep breath, my eyes fixed on her posteriors until she disappeared from view.

A complete pervert - that's me!

I looked at Elango, who was staring at me. I winked at him and walked behind her, leaving him with his mouth open.

And, saw her standing there, leaning back slightly against the wall, waiting for me with a nervous bite on her lower lip.

I smirked at her but quickly masked it with an annoyed expression. I puffed out my lips and shook the left collar of my kurta, muttering,

"Hot'ah irukku'le?"

(Isn't it hot?)

She jerked a little, lifted her face up and glared at me.

"Ooty fullaa mist form aagi irukku. Ungalukku hot'aah irukkaa?"

(Ooty is completely covered in mist. Is it hot for you?)

She asked, turned to look outside, checking if anyone was entering, and I seized the opportunity. With a swift motion, I moved my arm over her stomach and caught her bare waist beneath her single-pleat saree, twirling her towards me.

She gasped, her eyes widening in surprise as she looked at me, dashing on me.

"Achacho"

I chuckled.

"Ooty yaaru hot'ah irukku'nu sonnaa? Unna dha sonnen"

(Who said Ooty is hot? I was talking about you)

And her cheeks flushed with warmth.

"H..hot'ah?"

"Yesss"

I stretched the word and looked at her dark red lipstick-shaded lips, the jhumkas dancing in her ears, before averting my gaze back to her eyes when she asked,

"Apdilaam solla koodaadhu'le?"

(We shouldn't be saying like that, right?)

"Epdilaa?"

(Like what?)

"Hot"

I knitted my brows.

"Yaaru sonnaa?"

(Who said?)

"Naan dha"

(Me?)

I chuckled and asked,

"Loosaa di nee?"

(Are you crazy?)

"Haan. Apdilaa solla koodaadhu"

(We should not say like that)

"Oh. So, nee'laa apdi sonnadhey illa?"

(Oh. So, you didn't say that, did you?)

She averted her gaze from me, placed her hands on the back of mine, which was holding her waist, and said,

"Illaye"

(No)

"Poi sollaadha, ma"

(Don't act, ma)

I murmured, leaned in, aiming to kiss her dimple, but she turned just in time.

Our faces were inches apart, and we held eye contact, the air between us thick with tension. I inhaled softly, tilting my head slightly to the left, ready to kiss her. But before I could, she gently placed her hand on my lips, stopping me.

I stared at her, the moment hanging in the air.

"Nekku oru doubt"

(I have one doubt)

She murmured. I sighed and leaned my head back against the wall. But she pulled me down, grabbing my shirt collar.

"Enna'nu kelunga"

(Ask me what)

"Enna?"

(What?)

"Nekku onnu paakanum"

(I want to see something)

I looked at her suspiciously and tried to release my hold on her waist, asking,

"Paakanumaa?"

(Want to see?)

"Aama"

(Yes)

She replied, gripping my hands on her waist to make them stay there, and I asked,

"Ennadhu?"

(What do you want to see?)

She looked around, then at me, and grinned, whispering,

"Romance padam ellaa paape'laa neenga?"

(Do you watch romantic movies?)

I frowned at her.

"Romance padam'aah?"

(Romantic movies?)

"Mm aama"

(Yes)

She nodded, excitedly.

"Mm.. time irundhaa paapen. Yen kekura?"

(Mm... If I have time, I watch. Why, are you asking?)

I answered, still feeling completely confused.

"Adhu... "

(That..)

I gulped as she rolled the button of my kurta with her little finger. Then, holding onto my collar, she peeked out to check if anyone was nearby before looking back at me and asking,

"Naan paathadhey illa. Naama paapomaa?"

(I haven't seen them. Shall we watch them together?)

She raised her eyebrows suggestively, and I barely managed to hide my amusement as I asked with a straight face,

"Namma'laa? Yen? Nee thaniyaa paaru"

(Together? Why? You watch them alone)

She scrunched her face in disappointment at my reply.

"Ennaala paaka mudunjaa naan paaka maaten'ah? Enga amma paaka koodaadhu'nu solleerkaa, professor"

(If I have the allowance, can't I watch them? My amma told me not to watch them, professor)

"Paaka koodaadhaa? Yen?"

(Not to watch? Why?)

"Adhu therila. Aana, enga amma'ku naan romance padam paakuradhey pudikaadhu"

(I don't know. But my mom doesn't like me watching romantic movies)

"Movie'le enna irukku?"

(It's just a movie, right? What's in it?)

"Haann.. adhudha nekkum doubt. Yen paaka koodaadhu'nu naan therinjukanum. Adhaa kekuren naama paapomaa'nu..?"

(Hmm... that's the doubt I have. I need to know why I shouldn't watch it. That's what I'm asking. Shall we watch it together?)

"But, you said you made a promise, then how will we watch them?"

"Naan anniku amma kitta promise pannumbodhu romantic movies'laa nekku aathukaarar'nu oruthar vandhadhum paathukalaam'nu nenachen. Adhaa ippo neenga irukkinga'le? naama rendu perum saendhu paakalaam"

(When I promised my mom that I wouldn't watch romantic movies, I thought that if someone as my husband comes into my life, I could watch it with him. And now, you are here, aren't you? So, can we watch it together?)

I gasped in shock.

"Adipaavi! adhukku modhala naan un aathukaaran'aah irukkanum, di"

(Woman! For that, first I need to be your husband)

But she casually shrugged her shoulders and said,

"Aathukaraar'oh, naan love pandraan paiyano ellaam nekku onnu dha. Naama paakalaam please. Idhu ennoda evlo varsha kanavu theriyumo?"

(Whether it's my husband or my lover, it's all the same to me.Can we watch it together, please? Do you know how long I've dreamed of this?)

She whined, pointing her index finger at me with a pout. I smirked.

"Professional'aah unakku enna kanavu sollu di'naa solla maata. Aana romantic movies paakanum'ngradhu mattum kanavaa unakku?"

(If I ask you to dream professionally, you wouldn't tell me, right? But is your only dream to watch romantic movies?)

She exhaled a sigh of disbelief and said,

"Yen ithana question kekurel? Naan onne onnu dha movie paakalaamaa'nu mattum dha ketten. Adhukku okay or not solleetu vidalaam illa? Yedhukku ithana question?"

(Why are you asking so many questions? All I asked was whether we can watch a movie or not. Can't we just decide if it's okay or not? Why all the questions?)

She whined before murmuring,

"Lecturing manda!"

(Lecturing mind!)

I looked at her with an amused smile, but she quickly brushed my hands away and started to turn to leave.

"Seeth.."

However, she stopped in her tracks when she saw her parents standing in front of us. I noticed her gulp nervously, her hands trembling slightly.

With a calm face masking my shock, turning my attention to her parents, I took a few steps toward them, but I could feel her hesitation as she lingered behind me, stopping at a distance while I greeted them.

"Hello, sir"

"Neengalum vandhiruke'laa thambi?"

(You've come too, thambi?)

Her father asked me with a smile.

"Aama, sir. Hello, ma'am"

Her mother shifted her gaze from Seetha to me and offered a warm smile.

"Epdi irukkel?"

(How are you?)

"Fine, mam. Neenga?"

(You?)

"Nallaarken, sir"

(Fine, sir)

"Hmm. College placement coordinator, Mr. Ravikumar, Seetha and Kamali select aana company'le work thara start panneetaangalaa'nu kekka sonnaaru. I'm not sure if she told you both, but, Seetha'ku andha company'le irundhu yedho task kuduthuttu irukkardhaa sonnaanga"

(Hmm. The college placement coordinator, Mr. Ravikumar, asked me to check if Seetha and Kamali have started working at the company they were selected for. I'm not sure if she told you both, but Seetha mentioned that she has been given some task from the company)

They looked at her.

"Ippodha ma Kamali call panni sonnaa.. adha pesa dha vandhen.. sir vandhadhum apdiye avaakitta peseetu irundhen"

(Just now, Kamali called and told me about it... That's why I came to talk about it. When sir arrived, I was discussing it with him as well)

Seetha hurriedly explained to them.

"So, I was already waiting to have a conversation with you both. Ungalukku theriyumaa'nu therila. I'm a python professor. Avangalukku python based task dha kuduthirukkardhaa sonnaanga. She needs some help itseems. Neenga okay sonnaa avanga enga veetukku vandhu task pandra maadhiri pannalaam'nu irukken. Ungakitta permission kekuradhukku wai.."

(So, I was already waiting to have a conversation with you both. I'm not sure if you're aware, but I'm a Python professor. She mentioned that she's been given a Python-based task and needs some assistance. If it's alright with you, I was thinking she could come over to my place to work on it. That's why I wanted to ask for your permiss...)

"Veetukku epdi thambi anuppa mudiyum? Akkam pakkathula irukkavaa'laa paathaa en ponna dhane thappaa nenappaa?"

(How can we send her to your house, thambi? People around there might see her and start thinking wrongly about my daughter, right?)

I barely managed to keep myself from rolling my eyes at her father's concern. But I understood-it was natural for parents to worry about their children's reputation and future. So, with a reassuring smile, I said,

"Illa... okay..(exhaling).. veetukku vandhu panna venaa'naa college'ku kooda varlaam. Enakku next one week leave, veetla dha iruppen. Appo edhaadhu doubt'na vandhu kettukattum. Then, college start aanadhum, college'ku varattum. Ungalukku okay'na mattum dha. Neither of us is forcing anything"

(No... okay... (exhaling) if not at home, she can even come to the college to work on it. I'm on leave for the next week, so I'll be at home. If she has any doubts, she can come and clarify them. Once college resumes, she can visit the campus. Only if you're okay with it, of course. Neither of us is forcing anything)

I then turned to her and asked,

"Right, Seetha?"

"Haan?"

She stammered, nervously gulping as her eyes darted between me and her parents.

"Aam..aama, pa"

(Y..yes, dad)

I gave her a quick wink and asked,

"Kamali'uhm varadhaa solleerndhinga'le, ma?"

(Didn't you say Kamali will also come, ma?)

I asked her, and she opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it, merely nodding in response.

"Appo rendu perum college'ku vandhidunga next week'le irundhu. Then, if you have any doubts in between, you can call or come home anytime"

(So, both of you come to college next week. If you have any doubts in between, you can call or come home anytime)

She nodded again.

"Vaaya thorandhu sollu, ma. Professor kekuraanga'le?"

(Open your mouth and say it, ma. The professor is asking, right?)

I smirked at her, and she, with a straight face showing her anger, replied,

"Okay, sirrr"

I smiled and turned towards her parents, who smiled back at me.

"Thank you, sir"

Her father said.

"Aiyo, thanks'laa venaa. I'm just doing my duty"

(Oh no, no need for thanks. I'm just doing my duty)

They smiled at me.

"Seri peseetu vaa Seetha. Naanga munnaadi irukko"

(Okay, have a talk, Seetha. We will be in the front)

"Se..seri, pa"

(O..okay, pa)

They both left, and Seetha shot me a glare as she walked past me. But I quickly grabbed her elbow and pulled her towards me.

"Mch, vidungo"

(Tch, leave me)

She twisted her hand out of my grip and was ready to leave. I sighed, then reached out and gently placed my hand on her midriff, pulling her back towards me. She gasped, and slowly leaned into me, her hands clasping over mine, which rested on her stomach. I then whispered,

"Nee first time enkitta onnu kaetrukka, seiyaama epdi iruppen?"

(This is the first time you're asking something from me. How can I just stay quiet about it?)

She turned to me, still in my hold, her eyes sparkling with excitement, but a pout on her lips.

"Adhukku? Answer sheet'eh illaama question leak panniyum ennaala answer panna mudiyaadha maadhiri panneetingle?"

(So? Even if you had leaked the question paper, I still wouldn't have been able to answer any of those)

"Ha ha ha. Yaaru? Nee? Adhaa semmaye adichu vittiye.. kedi, ma nee"

(Ha ha ha. Who? You? Actually, you told some great lies... such a smart woman you are)

She giggled, and the jhumkas swayed with the rhythm of her laughter.

"Aana unga alavukku illa, professor sirrrrr"

(But not more smarter than you, professor sirrr)

I placed my hand on the small of her back, and she placed her hands on my chest as our gazes locked. Slowly, I moved my other hand to tuck her curls behind her ear, then traced her cheek and jawline with my finger.

She closed her eyes, savoring the touch, and with a soft whisper, she asked,

"College'le yaaraadhu paarthuttaa?"

(What if someone saw us at college?)

"Paathuttaa... unakku onnu solli kuduthuttu irukken'nu solluven"

(I'll just say that I'm teaching you something)

My hand gently cupped her jaw, my thumb lightly brushing her lower lip before I pulled it down ever so slightly, and she asked,

"Enn..ennadhu?"

(Something what?)

I smiled softly, my thumb still resting on her lip as I responded,

"Something like... it's our important syllabus"

With a slight smirk, I watched her eyes still closed, fully immersed in the moment. Then, I gently tickled the small of her back, feeling her body shake with laughter before she pushed me away, pulling herself back to reality.

Her cheeks flushed, and she shot me a playful glare.

"Enjoying a lot, aren't you?"

I teased, watching her try to suppress her smile as she stepped backwards, saying,

"Inniku night naan unga veetukku varuven"

(I will come to your house tonight)

I raised my eyebrows in amusement and asked,

"Yedhukku?"

(For what?)

She continued walking backwards but replied,

"Inniku night'le irundhu start panlaam"

(We can start from tonight)

"Enna start panlaam?"

(What can we start?)

"Our important syllabus"

I chuckled as she hurried off. Rubbing my neck, I was startled suddenly by the ringtone of my phone. I picked it up to hear appa asking where I was. I quickly assured him that I'd be there in a minute.

Seated in a circle with Appa, Elango, and another old man beside me, I nodded along with a smile, threading my fingers through my hair. But, my attention, however, was far from the conversation. Tilting my head subtly, I peered inside the house.

There... she emerged, her pallu trailing gracefully on the floor, conversing softly with the young girl beside her with a dimple smile.

I inhaled deeply, scratching my brow as I forced a polite smile at the old man, who asked about my job. I responded, my words steady but my focus divided. My gaze flickered towards her again as she sat nearby, her back facing me, talking animatedly to that girl.

Unable to resist, I bit my lower lip and smiled faintly. The subtle shake of my legs betrayed the restless energy bubbling inside me. Her presence made everything else seem muted. I rubbed my nape and tried to ground myself, but my eyes kept wandering to her, lingering on the soft movements of her hands as she spoke.

Suddenly, Appa rose, telling me to wait while he informed the family we were leaving. Then, Elango, too left with the old man to help him walk back to his house nearby.

Now, it was just the three of us-me, her, and the young girl. My fingers toyed with the edge of my phone as I scrolled aimlessly, stealing glances around to confirm that everyone else had moved to the hall.

So, with a swift motion, I reached for her chair, gripping the backrest just beside her waist. In one quick, deliberate tug, I pulled her chair closer. And, before she could fully register what was happening, I leaned down, pressing a firm yet brief kiss to her soft cheek.

Then, straightening immediately, I walked away without a word, leaving her stunned and the young girl blinking in shock behind me.

I fought to keep a smirk from tugging at my lips as I stepped into the hall. My gaze drifted to a room adjacent to the main area, where Appa caught sight of me and gestured for me to come closer. He was in conversation with the parents of the mother-to-be.

As I approached, they turned their attention to Appa, asking about my marriage plans. I suppressed a sigh, bracing myself for his response.

"Ponnu ready dha, ma. Kalyanam mattum dha, seekro nadatheerlaam"

(The bride is ready, ma. It's just the wedding that needs to be arranged quickly)

He spoke, his tone calm yet determined.

I blinked in shock, my eyes widening as their congratulations rained down on me. Appa caught my expression and cheekily winked, prompting an involuntary chuckle from me.

But before I could answer something, her voice chimed in from behind me, accompanied by the faintest brush of her chest against my arm.

"Aunty, akka ungala koopadraanga"

(Aunty, sister is calling you)

She said softly, her tone casual.

I glanced at Appa, who was now smiling warmly at Seetha but neither of them exchanged words in front of others.

The woman's parents excused themselves, politely urging us to leave only after having food. Appa nodded in agreement, but as Seetha tried to slip away unnoticed, I reached out and grabbed her wrist, pulling her towards me.

"Enna ma? Ipdi pesaama pora un mama kooda?"

(What's this? Are you going to leave without saying anything to your mama?)

I asked, my voice low but teasing.

She stiffened, avoiding my gaze.

"Aiyo, professor, vidungo. Appa veliya dha nikkiraa... Mama sollunga, mama!"

(Oh no, professor, leave me. Appa is standing outside... Tell him, mama)

She exclaimed, her words rushing out in a flustered plea as she turned towards Appa for help.

Appa chuckled.

"Seri, vidu da. Paavam en marumaga"

(Alright, leave my daughter-in-law, da)

He said with mock seriousness.

My eyebrows arched as I turned to Seetha.

"Yaaru ivalaa?"

(Who? She?)

I teased, narrowing my eyes playfully at her.

She squinted at me in mock annoyance, her lips twisting as if to scold me. But before she could retort, I leaned in and brushed my lips against hers-a swift yet lingering kiss. My hand slipped to her bare waist beneath her saree, my grip firm enough to draw a sharp gasp from her.

Her wide eyes quickly scanned the room, making sure no one had noticed us. Once she realized we were alone, she shoved me back with both hands, her face turning a deep shade of red. And, without a word, she turned and ran out of the room.

Smiling, I followed her out of the house to the entrance, where I saw her already heading out. I raised an eyebrow at her, but she shot me a wink before walking off with her parents, leaving me grinning to myself.

Turning around, I found appa and Elango watching me with mischievous smiles, hands tied beneath their chest.

I gave them a nervous smile and mumbled that I was going to start the car, hoping to escape their teasing. Elango wasted no time, rushing behind me and shouting,

"Car key enkitta irukku da, deii.."

(Car key is with me, idiot)

Shit!

******

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

Please vote and comment 🙏🏻❤️

See you all in the next update, bubyee 🚴‍♀️💜🦋