Hello 😀

Long chapter ahead. Saaptu evening padinga, guys. Saapdaama padikkaadhinga ❤️

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴🏻‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Seetha

"101° irukku. Normal fever dha. But, medicines kuduthirukken. Injection potruken. It will get better soon. Adhukkapro seri aagalanaa venaa, further tests edhaadhu eduthu paakalaam"

(It's 101°. It's just a normal fever. I've given medicines and also an injection. It will get better soon. If it doesn't improve after that, we can consider doing some further tests if needed)

I heard the doctor's voice faintly in the distance, but I sighed without even attempting to lift my heavy eyelids. Amma and Appa thanked the doctor as he left after advising me to take care, to which I gave a subtle nod.

Later, as I ate the porridge prepared by Amma and took the prescribed tablets, the weight of exhaustion pulled me into a deep sleep under the influence of the medication. When I finally managed to open my heavy eyelids again, the first thing I saw was Kamali's worried face as she sat in the chair beside my bed. I mustered a faint smile for her.

"Kamali"

"Enna di aachu? Ivlo joram vandhirukku?"

(What happened to you? How did you get such a high fever?)

Kamali asked me softly, her voice filled with concern.

I tried to speak, but my throat felt dry and scratchy. After a moment, I managed to whisper, 

"Therila, Kamali. Dhideernu night'le irundhu fever adikardhu"

(I don't know, Kamali. The fever suddenly started hitting me from last night.)

"Seri ippo epdi irukku?"

(Okay, how are you feeling now?)

"Romba tired'aah irukku. Nekku oru help mattum pandriyaa?"

(I'm really tired. Can you help me with just one thing?)

"Enna? Sollu.."

(What? Tell me..)

"En phone eduthu avaa number'ku nekku fever'nu mattum inform panneeriyaa?"

(Did you take my phone and inform him about my fever?)

She gave me a smile, and asked,

"Seri, message panneeren. Un phone enga?"

(Okay, I'll send him the message. Where's the phone?)

Kamali looked around, her eyes scanning the room before she picked up my phone from the side table.

 And, I said,

"Adhu charge illaama off aagi irukku"

(It's off, it died out of charge)

She plugged in the charger, switched on the phone, and I widened my eyes as I heard 'Pudhu Vellai Mazhai' playing on its own. My heart skipped a beat, and I quickly looked at Kamali, hoping she wouldn't notice.

She frowned slightly, glancing at the screen. Then, without asking anything, she swiped the song off, and I let out a sigh of relief.

But I heard the continuous pinging sound of notifications as she turned on the internet, and she exclaimed after a few minutes, looking at the screen,

"Adippaavi! Enna di idhu?"

(Oh my goodness! What is this?)

I narrowed my brows and asked,

"Ennaachu?"

(What happened?)

Kamali's eyes shifted between the screen and me before she finally said with a slight smirk,

"Aahn neeye paaru"

(Well, you take a look yourself)

She sat beside me on the bed, near my head, and showed me the chat page between my professor and me. My heart skipped a beat as I read the messages aloud in my mind,

Teddy🧸: 'I couldn't sleep last night'

Teddy🧸: 'I just want to make you mine, Seetha'

Teddy🧸: 'That was so intense, you know?'

Teddy🧸: '😇'

Aiyoooooooooooooo!!!!

This mann.

I gulped hard, and looked at Kamali who's glaring at me.

"Kamali nee nenaikiraaple'laa illa di"

(Kamali, it's not what you think)

I said quickly, trying to explain. But, Kamali raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced.

"Yen di, that was so intense'nu anuppeerkaaru. Apdilaa illa'nu nee sonnaa naan nambanumaa?"

(What's this, he's the one who sent 'That was so intense'? And you expect me to believe you if you say it wasn't like that?)

My cheeks burned in a blush remembering the moments of the previous night, but I still managed to explain, 

"Kamali.. no.. onnume illa. Just..."

(Nothing)

"Just?"

"Verum kiss dha di. Nee avaalukku message pannu. Apro veetukke vandhiruvaa"

(It was just a kiss. You send the message to him. Then he'll directly come home)

Kamali shook her head, a small sigh escaping her lips as she typed the message, just as I had told her to.

"101° fever. Took injection and tablets. Will call you later. I love you"

She looked at me with a fake frustrated expression, as if processing what was happening, and then hit send. The sound of the message being sent echoed in the quiet room before she carefully placed the phone on the charger.

"Nee fever'le irundhu seri aagu. Apro naan enna'nu kaettu therinjukuren"

(You first get better from the fever. Then, I'll ask what happened and figure it out)

She gave me a gentle pat on the shoulder, and I pouted at her, but she simply left the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

I sighed and curled up inside the duvet with my pillow. Then, smiled as a great relief washed over me, knowing I had hidden all the marks on my neck, the back of my neck, shoulders, and collarbone—marks left by him, the previous night itself.

He's changing, becoming a completely desperate person around me. 

But, the little assurance he gives after everything makes me fall harder for him over and over again.

I don't know if our relationship will become intense in another way, but it will definitely be a trustful one. And we both want the same thing. 

But, still.... the guilt in my heart hasn't faded. The way my parents trust me weighs heavily on me, making me feel guilty with every passing second. I need to talk to my professor soon and put a full stop to this.

Anyway, he came into my life only a few months ago, while my parents have been there from the day I was born and stepped into this world. I don't want their trust in me to be broken.

Just as I was thinking about that, sleep started consuming me, but I heard the sound of a door opening, followed by footsteps. Then, I heard,

"Ippodha Sai, Seetha thoongeerkaa. Neenga venaa aprom vaangalen?"

(Now only she slept, Sai. Why can't you come afterwards?)

I heard Kamali's voice, and I rolled my eyes at the mention of his name.

Ivan vera...

(This man..)

"Illa... it's okay, naan summa paathuttu polaa'nu dha vandhen"

(No... it's okay, I just came to check on her)

And I felt a hand on my head, followed by a gentle caress. 

I quickly pulled off the duvet, sat up with some difficulty, and adjusted my dress.

"Seetha" 

He said, his voice soft, as he looked at me with a smile.

I just stared at him, and then at Kamali, who was standing behind him, her eyes locked on Sai Krishna with a glare.

"Ippo epdi irukku?"

(How are you feeling now?)

I looked at him and forced a smile, saying,

"Better"

"Oh, neenga thoongeetu irukkardhaa sonnaanga.."

(Oh, they said you were sleeping..)

"Yeah, thoongeetu dha irundhen. But, yedho pest ooruna maadhiri irundhadhu. Adhaa bayandhu elundhutten"

(Yeah, I was sleeping. But, it felt like some pest was crawling over me. I got scared and woke up)

"Pest?"

His brows knitted.

"Poochi'laa illa di, Seetha. Ivaru dha un thalaila kai vachu thadavi kudukka vandhaaru"

(It's not a pest, Seetha. He's the one who came and touched your head with his hand to comfort you)

Kamali said, crossing her arms beneath her chest.

Sai Krishna looked at her.

"Sai Krishna" 

I called out.

He swiftly turned towards me with a wide smile. I sighed, feeling a mix of frustration and helplessness.

"Nekku setha privacy kedaikumo?"

(Shall I get some privacy?)

He blinked at me.

"Sure.. uhmm... Take care. Tablets'laa marakkaama potrunga. You have my number, right? Call me if anything"

(Sure... uhmm... Take care. Don't forget to take the tablets. You have my number, right? Call me if anything)

He said hurriedly.

I just nodded my head.

"Bye. Take care"

I stared at him as he smiled and left the room.

I huffed, and Kamali locked the door from inside.

"Pudikalanaa pudikala'nu moonjukku neraa soldradhukku enna maami unakku?"

(Why can't you just say it to his face if you don't like him, maami?)

She asked me frustratingly.

"Epdi di solla soldra? Avan enna intention'le irukkaa'nu kooda nekku theriyala"

(How could I say?I don't even know what his intentions are)

"Enna mannangatti intention? Paathaa'le theriyudhu.. enna try pandraan'nu... aana nee theriyala'nu vera soldra?"

(What intention are you talking about? You can see it... what he's trying to do... but you're saying you don't understand?)

I exhaled.

"Yeno thaano'nu ennaala ellaame seiya mudiyaadhu, Kamali. Avaa en relative. Naan edhaadhu moonjila adicha pola solla poi, avaa adha en Appa kitta poi sonnaa enna nadakkum'nu nokku theriyaadhaa?"

(I can't do everything on my own, Kamali. He's my relative. If I say something like I don't like him, and if he goes and tells that to my dad, can you imagine what will happen?)

"Adhukkaaga?"

(So what?)

"Adhukkaaga.. avaa kitta amaidhiyaa irundhu dha aaganum, Kamali. Choice'eh illa"

(So what? I have to stay silent with him. There's no choice for me)

"Nee soldradha avan purinjukura maadhiri character'ah irundhaa?"

(What if he's the kind of person who would understand what you're trying to say?)

"Nalladhu dha. Aana purinjukaadha character'ah irundhaa?"

(That would be good. But, what if he's the kind of person who wouldn't actually understand?)

I asked back, and she stared at me, opening her mouth to say something. But before she could speak, my phone rang. I smiled, already knowing who it could be, and stretched my hand to unplug it from the charger. I attended the call, giving Kamali a smile as she returned it and left the room.

"Enna ma aachu? Naan sonnen'le naethae? Fever irukka maadhiri irukku'nu?"

(What happened? Didn't I tell you yesterday, that it feels like you have a fever?)

I smiled softly at his concern.

"Onnula, professor. Fever dhane seri aageedum"

(Don't worry, professor. The fever will get better soon)

He let out a relieved sigh, his voice soft but filled with concern.

"101 degrees, ma. Appa anga unga veetukku varattaa'nu kekuraaru.."

(101 degrees, ma. Appa is asking if he can come to your house...)

I widened my eyes.

"Aiyo. Naan avlodha apro. Adhellaa venaa. Neenga video call venaa pannunga, naan peseeren rendu peru kittayum"

(Oh no. I'll be done, then. That's okay. If you want, you can make a video call, I'll talk to both of you.)

He hummed and declined the call before calling me through the video call.

I smiled at them, seeing them through the screen as they sat beside each other.

"Enna chello paakave ivlo tired'aah irukka?"

(You seem so exhausted just by looking )

"Fever dha mama. Vera onnum illa"

(Just a fever, mama. Nothing else)

I leaned back against the headboard.

"Seri, nee poi rest edu.. apro pesalaam namma"

(Okay, you go rest now. We'll talk later)

"Seringa mama. Saaptelaa?"

(Okay, mama. Have you eaten?)

"Saapten, ma. Nee enna saapta? Tablets'laa potiyaa?"

(I've eaten, ma. What about you? Did you take your tablets?)

"Amma kanji kuduthaa, mama. Tablets'uhm pottuten"

(Amma gave me porridge, mama. I took the tablets too)

"Seri da nee rest edu.. naan vandhuren.. neenga pesunga.. Aayush"

(Okay, you take rest. I'll come. You two talk, Aayush)

He tapped my man's shoulder, who was sitting beside him and glancing at me, before leaving the place, leaving us alone. 

I looked at him, who smiled slightly at me with a concerned expression, and asked,

"Ippo epdi irukku?"

(How are you feeling now?)

"Body pain'ah irukku"

(I have body pain)

I answered and leaned my head back on the headboard with a sigh, smiling softly.

"Fever innum irukkaa?"

(Is the fever still there?)

"Irukka maadhiri dha irukku"

(Yes)

"Fan off panneetu thoongu. Sweat aana seri aagum"

(Turn off the fan and sleep. The sweat will help you feel better)

"Mmm.. Kamali ulla vandha apro soldren"

(Mmm.. I'll tell Kamali when she comes in)

"Kamali vandhirukkaalaa?"

(Has Kamali come home?)

"Mmm"

"Seri, ennaachu? Dhideernu fever?"

(Alright, what happened? How did you end up with a fever all of a sudden?)

"Aarukku theriyum?"

(Who knows?)

"Mmm"

"Mmm. Saaptelaa?"

(Mmm. Have you eaten?)

"Yes. Injection potaanga'nu sonna?"

(Yes. You said you had an injection?)

"Aama potaanga"

(Yes)

I replied and suddenly remembered about mentioning the love matter to my parents. However, I hesitated, unsure of how he would react. I looked at him, nervously gulping, while he said,

"Seri.. nee rest edu"

(Okay.. you take some rest)

He looked straight into my eyes, his gaze unwavering, while I nervously averted mine and whispered,

"Seri"

"Bye"

"Okay"

But just as I was about to decline the call myself, I froze upon hearing him softly call out my name,

"Seetha"

I looked at him, only to find him already gazing into my eyes with an intensity that hinted at determination. Sensing there was no point in beating around the bush, I opened my mouth and asked directly. 

After all, he had clearly already picked up on my nervousness.

"Naan onnu sollalaamaa?"

(Shall I say something?)

"I was waiting for it as well. Go ahead"

He replied in his professor tone—calm yet firm.

"Ne..nekku kashtamaa irukku"

(I'm feeling down)

"Enna kashtam?"

(Why?)

As I started sharing my guilty feelings with him, the tears I had managed to hold back when I was alone started to flow, trickling down my cheeks. 

I couldn't understand why I was being so sensitive around him.

"Ap..appa, amma enmela romba trust vachirukkaa.. naan.. naan adha.."

(Appa, amma are trusting me a lot... but... but I...)

He scratched his forehead, averting his gaze from me, and a wave of fear washed over me as I wondered if the reason behind his hesitation was something I couldn't even begin to imagine.

He won't do such things and leave you, Seetha. You're overthinking a lot lately.

I said to myself, gathered my thoughts and began,

"Pr..professor. I am not expecting.. just.."

But I stopped my words when he finally looked into my eyes and said,

"Inga paaru, Seetha. Nee alugardha paaka mudiyaama dha naan thirumbunen, seriyaa? Don't assume anything yourself. Ippo naan enna pannanum? Just tell me that"

(Look here, Seetha. I just averted my gaze from you because I couldn't bear to see you in tears, okay? Don't assume anything yourself. Now, what should I do? Just tell me that)

I gulped, staring at him and said, 

"Nekku theriyala"

(I don't know)

And, we both stayed silent for a few moments, and then he spoke again, his words leaving me stunned, my eyes widening in surprise.

"Seri, naan appa've vandhu pesa sollatumaa?"

(Alright, should I ask my dad to talk to your parents?)

"Haan?"

I just couldn't form any words at that moment and watched him sigh, running his fingers through his hair restlessly. 

Then, he looked at me again and said,

"But enakku konjo time venum'nu thonudhu, Seetha. Yedutho kavutho'nu ennaala.. "

(But I feel like I need some time, Seetha. I can't do everything in a hurry, you know...)

He exhaled before continuing, 

"Yedutho kavutho'nu ennaala namma life'le decision edukka mudiyaadhu, Seetha"

(I can't rush things when it comes to our life)

That really brought a fresh set of tears, but this time, they were happy ones.

"Namma life?"

(Our life?)

I asked, overwhelmed. 

But his face changed into a complete opposite one—hurt, angry, frustrated—all the negative emotions flashing across his expression, making me gulp and wonder what I had said wrong. 

He then asked in his firm tone,

"Enna paathaa epdi theriyudhu unakku? Vittutu poyiruven'nu nenachu dha nethu enna ellaam panna vittiyaa?"

(What are you thinking about me? Did you leave me to do anything I want with the thought that I would leave you one day?)

I gasped and shook my head, not knowing how to respond.

"Phone'eh vai"

(Cut the call) 

He said firmly, his voice sharp.

I gave him a pout.

"Sorry sorry.. naan yedho.."

(I didn't mea..)

"Nee rest edu.. naan apro call pandren"

(Take rest, I'll call you later)

He said gently, stopping my words in the middle.

"Professor. Naan apdi nenaikala neenga.."

(Professor, I didn't mean like that. You...)

But he stopped me again before I could finish my explanation,

"Naan kovamaa'laa illa, di. Po poi rest edu dhayavu senju.."

(I'm not angry, okay? Go and rest, please)

"Naan edhuvum expect pannala. Nekku kashtamaa irukku, adhaa sonnen. Adha kooda solla koodaadhaa? Namma life'nu neenga first time sollumbodhu nekku epdi irukkum'nu neenga yosikka maatelaa? Avlo thittu vaangeerken ungakitta oru propose pannadhukku. Nekkum asingamaa dha irukku, professor'eh oru student'aah naan love panneetane'nu ungalukku mattum illa"

(I didn't expect anything. I'm just feeling bad. That's why I said it. Should I not have said that too? When you talk about our life for the first time, don't you think about how I might feel? I've taken a lot of scolds from you, and all I asked for was a proposal. Even I feel ashamed, professor, falling in love with you as a student. It's not just you who feels this way)

I just yelled, losing my cool.

But his face turned into disbelief as he asked, whispering,

"Asingamaa irukkaa?"

(You feel awkward?)

But I didn't say something he didn't say, in our past. 

So, I argued,

"Aama neenga dhane anniku unga cabin'le kaettinga? Asingamaa illayaa'nu?"

(Yes, you were the one who asked that day in your cabin, right? Like... don't I feel ashamed?)

He looked at me, dejected.

"Cabin'le naan adhu mattum dha unkitta idhu varaikum solleerkanaa, Seetha? Asualt'ah asingamaa irukku'ngra? Enna love pandradhu appo unaku asingamaa irukkaa?"

(In the cabin, was that the only thing I've ever said to you till now, Seetha? You're saying it feels shameful. Then, does falling in love with me feel shameful to you?)

I gulped, unable to hold his gaze as his eyes reflected even deeper hurt. My voice trembled as I stammered,

"Nee..neenga sonnadhu dha naan sonnen"

(I...I just said what you said...)

But he finally lost his cool and started shouting at me, his tone laced with both hurt and disbelief.

"Yei! Dhideeernu nee vandhu apdilaa sollumbodhu, naan enna di react panna mudiyum?"

(Hey, how am I supposed to react when you suddenly come and say something like that?)

Now, he's getting to my point.

"Ippo puriyardhaa? Neenga ippo namma life'nu dhideernu sollumbodhu, naan mattum epdi react panna mudiyum? Enakkum shock'ah dha irukku"

(Do you understand now? When you suddenly say something like that about our life, how am I supposed to react? I'm in shock, as well)

He raised his left brow and asked softly yet firmly, 

"Sanda podanumaa unakku?"

(Do you want to fight with me?)

I whispered softly, as well,

"Naan start pannala"

(I didn't start it)

"Seri naan dha start pannen. Naane muduchu vakkiren. Bye. Take care"

(Okay, I started it. I'll finish it. Bye. Take care)

He declined the call.

I stared at the phone screen.

What had just happened?

Were we fighting?

Clicking my tongue in frustration, I threw the phone away, cupped my forehead with my hands and leaned back against the headboard with a groan.

A few minutes later, Amma was feeding me porridge, but my mind was still consumed by the very first fight we'd had.

I had no idea how I'd found the courage to speak to my professor like that, to shout at him.

Why did I say that I'm ashamed of falling in love with him?

I blinked away my tears as Amma sat beside me.

How could I say something like that?

What happened to me?

Oruvishyatha avarukku puriya vakkiradhukku, naan yen apdilaa pesunen?

(To make him understand something, why did I have to speak like that?) 

Past'eh yedhukku ennoda point'ah eduthuttu vandhen, when our present feels more magical than a fairytale?

(Why did I bring up the past and use it to make my point in the middle of the argument?)

I wondered aloud about my mistakes. Yes, I thought, I had truly forgotten his past harshness towards me. But now, it feels like those harsh memories never really left me.

I don't know why I'm overthinking so much today. 

Despite everything—how we had spent time together, roaming around, laughing, teasing, kissing almost like lovers—I still found myself doubting him.

Did something possess me?

What happened to you, Seetha? How could you say that your love for him is a shame?

Amma wiped my lips with her palm and left with the plate, saying something to me. I couldn't quite catch her words, but I nodded absentmindedly.

Once I was alone, tears welled up in my eyes and spilled over, but I quickly wiped them away when I heard the sound of Amma's anklets. Leaning back against the headboard, I tried to gather myself.

However, my brief moment of peace was interrupted. When,

Sai Krishna entered the room with my parents, his parents, and Kamali, who looked both restless and angry. 

Annoyance bubbled within me as I frowned and turned to Appa. But,

"Ippo epdi irukku da ma?"

(How are you feeling now, dear?)

Sai Krishna's mother stood beside me, gently caressing my hair as she asked.

I offered her a faint smile and nodded quietly in response.

"Kannellaa veengi poi irukku paaru. Paavam pulla"

(Look at her eyes; they're all swollen. Poor girl)

Sai Krishna's appa said with a worried smile. I returned the same slight smile and turned to Appa, who said,

"Nokku onnu'nadhu un aththa mama unna paathey aaganum'nu odi vandhuttaa paaru Seetha"

(Seetha, as soon as your aunt and uncle heard you weren't well, they rushed here to see you)

He said with a full smile, but the mention of 'mama' instantly brought Aayush sir's father to my mind in that moment, and I knew that no one could ever replace that place.

"Pinna? Enga marumagalukku onnu'naa naanga varaama vera yaaru varuvaa?"

(Then? For our daughter-in-law, who will come if not us?)

Sai Krishna's mother asked as she sat beside me on the bed, her hand gently resting beside my thigh. 

I stared at her, wondering why they were showing so much affection now, it felt strange.

"Yen Seetha? Naan soldradhu seri dhane?"

(What, Seetha? Wasn't what I said correct?)

She asked me, and I looked at her with the same slight smile, completely confused, as I sensed something was about to happen. 

The parents exchanged knowing glances, smiling at each other, while Sai Krishna stood there, lowering his head with a gentle smile. 

Kamali, on the other hand, stood there, watching everything with a look of disbelief.

"Enna ma apdi paakura? Aama, en aththa mama nekku enna'naalum modha aalaa vandhu paaka varuvaa'nu sollu un appa kitta"

(What are you looking at, dear? Just tell your dad that, yes, my aunt and uncle will visit me whenever, no matter what)

I gulped.

"Seri, vidu, Maragadham. Ava vekka padraa pola"

(Okay, leave her, Maragadham. She seems to be feeling shy)

I narrowed my brows at Sai Krishna's father's remark, while the woman chuckled softly and gently held my cheek.

"Apdiyaa? Appo idha mattum sollu.. seekro enga'aathukku vandhudriyaa? Aththa unna nannaa paathukuren"

(Is that so? Then, just say this... Will you be coming to our house soon? I'll take care of you well)

I frowned, but my heart raced with the confusions of her questions. 

I didn't voice my thoughts out loud and glanced at Amma for help, but she just stood there silently. So, I turned back to the woman who had asked,

"Enna ma purilayaa?"

(Don't you understand me, dear?)

She asked. I knitted my brows and slowly shook my head. 

She chuckled softly and then asked,

"Enga paiyan, Sai Krishna've kalyanam pannipiyaa'nu aththa kekuren. Pannikiriyaa?"

(I am asking, will you marry our son Sai Krishna? Will you?)

I widened my eyes and gasped in shock, about to shout at her in anger, 

"Enn..."

(Wha..)

But I was stopped by appa, who said,

"Seetha kitta enna ma kekuradhukku irukku?Ava life'le naanga yendha thappaana mudivum edukka maatom'nu avalukku enga mela mulu nambikka irukku. Adhey pola dha engalukkum ava mela periya nambikka irukku. Namma enna thappaa panna porom? Ava mama've dhane kalyanam panni vaika poro? Idhula avalukku enna samadham illaama irukka pogudhu? Yen Anandhi?"

(Why are you questioning Seetha? She trusts us completely with her life decisions. Just as we trust her. We're not going to do something wrong to her, right? We're just going to get her married to her mama. Then what's her point in denying it here? Am I right, Anandhi?)

He asked Amma, but not me.

I stared at Amma, who smiled gently, ruffled my hair, and nodded in agreement, saying, 

"Aama'nga"

(Yes)

I looked at her in disbelief, my mouth opening to protest, to tell them that I would marry no one except the one I love, but,

"Seri vaanga, kozhandha paakave romba tired'ah theriyuraa.. ava rest edukattum, namma veliya utkaandhu matha vishyangala pathi pesalaam"

(Alright, let's go. She looks very tired... let her take some rest. We can sit outside and discuss other matters)

Sai Krishna's father said, and I watched as they all spoke to me before leaving the room, their words dissolving into a void, unheard and unregistered in my mind.

Now, it was just Sai Krishna, Kamali, and me. I gazed at him, my eyes blazing with anger. But,

"Na..nannaa rest edunga, Seetha. Naan veliya irukken"

(Get some good rest, Seetha. I'll be outside)

He turned to leave but stopped and looked back at me with a smile.

"Can't wait to hold you in my arms" 

He said before walking out of the room.

I sat there, disgusted, his words making me feel sick. 

Kamali locked the door and came over to me, saying something, but I couldn't focus on her words.

I stayed frozen until she shook me, making me look at her, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Vaaya thorandhu soldradhukku enna di unakku?"

(What's stopping you from opening your mouth and speaking up?)

I started breathing heavily.

"Kamali ippo.. ippo enna nadakudhu inga?"

(Kamali, what... what is happening here right now?)

"Naan ippodha di veliya avanga pesuradhu ellaam kettutu vandhen"

(I just heard everything they were saying outside and came in)

She said with a worried face, and I silently prayed to my Perumal, hoping that nothing would happen like what my mind was fearing.

"En..enna pesunaanga?"

(What... what are they talking about?)

"Adhu.."

(That....)

She lowered her face, hesitating to share, and I grabbed her arm, shaking her gently.

"Sollu, Kamali.."

(Tell me)

She looked at me finally and said,

"Seetha.. unakkum, andha Sai krishna'ku next week nichayam pandradha pathi peseetu irukkaanga di"

(Seetha, they're talking about getting you and that Sai Krishna engaged next week for sure)

I gasped in shock.

"Whatt?"

"Aama, maami. Enakku enna soldradhu'nu onnum puriyala. Seri neeyaadhu edhaadhu solluva'nu dha unkitta oru vaartha kekanum'nu solli ellaarayum inga kooptu vandhen. Aana nee yen di amaidhiyaa've irundha?"

(Yes. I don't understand anything that happened. So, I asked them to bring up to your concerns about the marriage and made them come here to ask you. But, why did you stay silent?)

"Nekku inga enna nadakudhu'ne puriyala, Kamali. Kalyanam varaikum pesuvaanga'nu naan suthamaa nenachey paakala, di"

(I don't understand what's happening here, Kamali. I never imagined they would talk about marriage so soon and suddenly)

I replied, frustrated to the core.

"Mch. Yen di ipdi irukkaanga? avanga onnum un life vaazha poradhu illai le? Nee dha vaazha pora. Pudikalanaa pudikalanu soldradhukku unakku mattum dha urima irukku. Aana adha kooda kekka maatenguraangalae.. adhaa enakke kashtamaa irukku"

(Mch. Why are they like this? Don't they want your life to be happy? You're the one who's going to live your life. You have the right to decide whether you accept it or not. But they aren't even letting you say anything... that's what bothers me)

She said, but I remained silent, trying to figure out how I could escape from this moment. I thought of calling him but quickly pushed the idea aside, knowing he probably wouldn't answer after the harsh words I had said. 

He must be hurt right now. Anything I ask for at this point could just lead to a fight, maybe even separation, which I couldn't bear. 

So, gathering all my courage, I looked at Kamali, grabbed her hand, and asked,

"Naan amma kitta pesanum. Amma've mattum kooptu variyaa?"

(I need to talk to Amma. Can you please ask her to come here alone, telling her that I want to speak to her?)

She smiled, squeezed my hands for support, and said, 

"Seri varen iru"

(Okay, I will. Wait a minute)

She quickly got up and left the room. I refreshed myself inside the bathroom and came back to see amma entering the room with a smile.

"Ippo epdi Seetha irukku?"

(How are you feeling now, Seetha?)

Giving her a slight smile, I replied,

"Paravala, ma"

(Better, ma)

"Seri sollu.. edhaadhu saapda venumaa? Nee kooptadhaa Kamali sonnaa? Ennaachu?"

(Okay, tell me... do you want something to eat? Did you ask Kamali to get me here? What's going on?)

I stood before her, swallowed hard, and said,

"Aama, ma. Naan.. naan oru vishyatha pathi ungakitta pesanum"

(Yes, mom. I... I need to talk to you about something)

"Enna da ma? sollu..."

(What, dear? Tell me..)

"Maa, Kamali sonnaa... neenga ellaarum nekku engagement pandradha pathi peseetu irukkinga'nu..."

(Mom, Kamali said... all of you have been talking about my engagement)

"Aama, da. Next week monday morning ni.."

(Yes, dear. Next week monday, you..)

"Amma"

I stopped her.

She frowned.

"Enna, Seetha?"

(What's wrong, Seetha?)

"Amma, nekku ippo yedhukku kalyanam?"

(Mom, why marriage now for me?)

"Seekram dha. Aana, Sai'ku next month last'le cannada ponum'nu solleerkaanga pola avar office'le, avaru thirumba return aaga six years aagum'nu soldraa, Seetha. So.. adhukulla ungalukku kalyanam muduchurlaam'nu paakuraa"

(Yes. It's soon. But, Sai's office mentioned that he will be going to Canada by the end of next month, and he might not return for six years, Seetha. So... they're talking about finishing the marriage before that)

"Ammaa avaalukku avaa office'le apdi solli irundhaa naan yen ma kalyanam pannikanum?"

(Mom, if his office told him that, why should I get married?)

"Pinna enna Seetha pandradhu? Nee avaa edathula irundhirundhaalum idhaa panneerka mudiyum"

(Then what else can we do, Seetha? If you were in his place, the same thing would have happened)

"Yen? Avaa illa'naa indha oorla vera yaarum enna kalyanam pannikka maataalaa, ma?"

(Why? If not him, no one else in this place will marry me?)

I asked angrily while she just stared at me.

"Sollu, ma. Vera yaarum enna kalyanam pannikka maataalaa?"

(Tell me, mom. No one else will marry me other than him?)

"Yen? Nokku vera yaara kalyanam pannikanum?"

(Why? Do you want to marry someone else?)

She asked firmly, her tone intense, making me gulp, unable to find the words.

"Unkitta dha Seetha kekuren. Nokku Sai illaama vera yaara kalyanam pannikanu?"

(I am asking you, Seetha. Other than Sai, who do you want to marry?)

"Maa, en..nekku kalyanam pannikave ishtam illa ma"

(Mom, I... I don't want to get married at all, Mom)

I stammered, unable to meet her intense gaze.

"Kalyanam pannikave ishtam illayaa? Illa 'indha' kalyanam pannikardhu'le mattum ishtam illayaa?"

(Don't you want to get married at all? Or is it just this particular marriage you don't want?)

"Ma.."

I could feel my heart racing, my fingers trembling in fear as I struggled to find the words to respond.

"Un professor dhane?"

(Your professor? Am I correct?)

I gasped in shock, my heart pounding.

"Amma"

"Indha vishyam nekku mattum therinjadhu'naala nalladhaa pochu. Un appa'ku mattum idhu therinjirundhaa evlo periya pretchana aagi irukkum'nu theriyumaa di nokku?"

(Is it good that only I know about this. Do you have any idea how big a problem this would have been if your father knew about it?)

She hit my shoulder, gritting her teeth in anger and I couldn't stop the tears from flowing.

"Paadam solli thara vaathiyaar'eh poi nee kalyanam pannaa.. indha ooru unna epdilaa pesum'nu theriyaadhaa Seetha nokku?"

(If you marry your professor, who is to be teaching you, do you realize how people will talk about you? Don't you see that, Seetha?)

"Amma.. naan.. naan college muduchutten, ma.."

(Mom... I... I have finished college, Mom...)

I tried to explain amidst my tears.

"College muduchaa? College muduchaa enna? Olunga ellaathayum thooki pottutu appa soldra maaplai'eh kalyanam pannikka. Illanaa unna dha di ellaarum thappaa pesuvaa.."

(So what now? just throw everything away and marry the person your dad says to. Otherwise, everyone will talk badly about you only)

Throw everything? 

How could she say something like that so easily?

"Amma enna ma pesura nee? Ennoda vaazhka ma idhu.. neenga soldringa'ngradhukkaaga ennaala epdi ma innoruthara manasula vachuttu, yaaro oruthar'ku kalutha neeta mudiyum?"

(Mom, what are you saying? This is my life. How can you ask me to marry a stranger when someone else already occupies my heart?)

"Inga paaru, Seetha. Naan unkitta ippo varaikum nee enna pannaalum adhukku naan maruthu oru vaarthaiyum pesunadhe kedaiyaadhu.. aana inniku pesuren'naa adhukku edhaadhu kaaranam irukkum, Seetha. Adhuvum konjam yosichu paaru.. avaru oru teacher... age epdiyum muppathi rendu mela irukkum. Nee yosikkaadhadha kooda, oru amma'vaa naan yosippen.  Andha paiyan venaa. Avlodha"

(Look here, Seetha. Up until now, whatever you've done, I never said a word against it. But today, I have to speak up, and there's a reason for it. Think about it carefully... he is a teacher, and he must be above thirty for sure. Even if you don't think about the things, I will think for you as a mother. So, you don't want that man. That's it)

She said seriously, and I frowned.

"Enna ma yosikira?"

(What will you think?)

She let out a deep sigh, then spoke calmly,

"Unakke theriyum'le Seetha? Un periyappa ponnu, Geetha, avala vida 14 vayasu koodunavangala kalyanam panni ippo kozhandha illaama evlo kashta padraa'nu?"

(Don't you know, Seetha? Your uncle's daughter, Geetha, got married to a man 14 years older than her, and now she's suffering a lot without having a child)

I looked at her in disbelief and asked,

"Maa.. enna ma loosu maadhiri peseetu irukka? Adhu avanga life, idhu enga life.. vera vera ma.. yedhu kooda yedha compare pandra?"

(Mom... why are you talking like this? That's their life, this is ours... they're completely different. How can you even compare them?)

"Nekku adhellaa theriyaadhu. Andha paiyan venaa'naa venaa.."

(I don't know about all that. You don't want that man, and that's all)

She said stubbornly. I wiped my tears away and then said with the same stubbornness,

"Appo naanu soldren, neeyum appa'uhm paatha paiyan nekku venaa.. Apdiye nokku edhaadhu sandhegam'na sollu.. naanga rendu perum indha padathula'laa vara maadhiri test eduthuttu vandhu kaamikiro.. apro yendha pretchanayum engalukku illa'nu therinjadhum eng.."

(Then I'll say it. I don't want the man you and Appa have chosen for me. Fine, if you have any doubts, just tell me. Like in the movies, we'll take whatever tests you want and prove there's no problem. Then, you can arrange our mar..)

But before I could finish, her hand landed on my right cheek with a sharp, stinging slap, silencing me instantly.

"Amma kitta enna pesuro'nu therinju dha pesuriyaa di nee?"

(Do you even think before speaking to your mother, Seetha?)

She asked, her voice trembling with anger.

"Aama therinju dha pesuren. Nekku indha kalyanam venaa"

(Yes, I know exactly what I'm saying. I don't want this marriage)

I shouted at her and dropped onto the bed, crying hard.

She stood still for a moment, not saying a word, and then walked out of the room.

Kamali rushed in immediately and hugged me tightly, trying to comfort me.

Why doesn't amma understand me? 

I sobbed. It felt like everything was going wrong.

The fight with him.

The misunderstandings between us.

Sai Krishna and his parents showing up.

This sudden talk of marriage to a stranger.

Everything was slipping out of my hands.

I wanted to stop it all, but I didn't know how. With my heart heavy, I cried until I fell asleep, exhausted.

But, a loud noise woke me up. I sat up, rubbing my heavy head, confused and tired, and could hear voices arguing outside my room.

I slowly pushed the blanket aside, got out of bed, and walked to the door. 

My legs felt weak, but I made my way out.

At the entrance of the hallway, I saw amma and appa arguing loudly. Their voices filled the house, and the tension was thick.

I froze in place, my chest tightening as I heard appa say,

"Naan poi avaata kekuren. Enna dhairiyam irukkanu? Student'eh kooda porakkaadha thangachi maadhiri paathukuravaa dha unmaiyaana teacher. Adhanaala dha avanukku naan avlo mariyaadha kuduthen. Aana adhaye misuse panni, en ponnayae love pannuvaanaa avan? Naan enna nu kett.."

(I'll go and ask him myself. What kind of audacity does he have? A real teacher should see his students like his own younger siblings, with respect and boundaries. That's why I gave him so much regard. But if he misused that and dared to love my daughter? I'll find out what he thinks of...)

He stopped the moment his eyes landed on me. I gulped nervously, feeling his intense glare pierce right through me.

"Un amma soldradhu'laa unmaiyaa Seetha?"

(Is what your mom said true, Seetha?)

He asked me angrily, but I stayed silent, not knowing what to answer.

"Unna dha Seetha kekuren. Naan avlo selavu panni, avlo kashta pattu unna padikka vachadhulaa idhukku dhaanaa? Sollu, Seethaa.."

(I'm asking you, Seetha. After all the effort, the struggles, and the money I've spent to educate you, is this what it's for? Tell me, Seetha..)

"Appa.. naan.. "

"Nee onnum solla venaa.. naan ippovum unna namburen, ma. Avan dha edhaadhu senjiruppaan. Oru student kitta epdi nadandhukanum'nu kooda therila.. ippove police station'ku poi case potu avana ulla thallaama vida maaten"

(You don't have to say anything... I still believe in you, ma. Whatever he's done, it's his fault. He doesn't even know how to behave with a student. Right now, I'll go to the police station, file a case, and make sure he never comes near you again)

He took the shirt from the hanger and left the house, putting it on as he walked. I ran behind him, shouting,

"Appaaa.. nillunga pa.."

(Wait, dad)

"Appaaaaa!"

I breathed heavily, my fists clenched beside me. I gasped when I saw Appa and Amma rush into the room, their faces full of concern.

"Seetha..."

Appa sat beside me, gently stroking my hair. His comforting touch made me gulp, and I sighed in relief, realizing that everything had just been a dream. But as I looked at Amma's stern face, I understood that the rest was real. 

Overwhelmed with emotion, I hugged Appa tightly and cried silently in his embrace.

"Enna da ma aachu?"

(What happened, dear?)

"Appa..ne..nekku indha kalyanam ellaa venaa, pa"

(Appa, I.. I don't want this marriage, pa)

"Yen paapa?"

(Why, baby?)

"Nekku venaa, pa"

(I don't want, pa)

I repeated.

"Appa, amma've vittu poiduvome'nu yosikiriyaa?"

(Are you worried about leaving us?)

 Appa asked softly, his voice tinged with concern.

I sniffed without saying anything.

"Namma relative dhane paapa? Avaa unna nannaa paathuppaa, ma"

(They are our relatives only, right? They will take good care of you, dear)

He said gently, trying to reassure me.

"Aana nekku ishtam illai, pa"

(But I don't want to, pa)

"Yen?"

(Why?)

He asked, but the haunting memory of the dream clouded my mind, making me feel trapped. 

I sat there, helpless, unsure of what to do or how to escape this situation. Just then, the sound of the doorbell snapped me back to reality, interrupting my thoughts.

"Naan paakuren'nga"

(I'll see)

Amma spoke as she left the room, and Appa looked at me with a soft expression, wiping away my tears. He was about to say something, but he paused when Amma called him from the entrance of the room.

"Yen'nah"

(Dear)

"Sollu, Anandhi"

(Tell me, Anandhi)

"Yen'nah. Setha veliya vaangalen. Ungala paaka aaro vandhirukkaa"

(Come outside for a moment. Someone has come to see you)

"Aaru?"

(Who?)

"Neenga vandhu paarungo"

(You come outside and see yourself)

Appa hummed, turned to me, 

"Aludhadhu podhum, da. Poi refresh aageetu vaa.."

(Enough of crying, dear. Go and get refreshed)

I nodded slightly, and he left the room with amma. I quickly dialed mama's number to ask for his help but frowned when I heard it ringing too close to my ear. 

Gasping, I stood up and rushed out of the room, only to see mama sitting on the couch in front of my parents, smiling at them.

I gulped, my steps hesitant as I moved towards them. Amma's gaze was fixed on me, making me lower my eyes briefly before I raised them again to meet mama's smile. I didn't return the smile, and instead, my gaze quickly shifted to Appa.

"Sollungo. Aaru neenga?"

(Tell me. Who are you?)

Appa asked mama.

"En peru, Paarthiv Raj, naan oru physiotherapist. Sondhamaa clinic vachirukken. Wife enga kalyanam aagi konja varshathulaye schizophrenia'ngra oru mananala disorder naala yerandhuttaanga. Enakku oru paiyan irukkaan, avan peru Aayush Kumar"

(My name is Paarthiv Raj, and I'm a physiotherapist. I run my own clinic. My wife passed away due to schizophrenia, a mental disorder, after our marriage. I have a son, his name is Aayush Kumar)

Appa frowned at him.

"Ungalukku therinjirukkum'nu nenaikiren. Unga ponnu Seetha'oda professor dha en paiyan, Aayush Kumar"

(I believe you already know. My son, Aayush Kumar, is your daughter Seetha's professor)

Appa's smiled widened.

"Ohh. Thambi oda appa'nglaa neenga? Anandhi enna paathuttu irukka, po ma thanni mondhu kudu, sir'ku.."

(Oh, you're his father? What are you looking at Anandhi? Go, get some water to sir)

Appa said to amma. But,

"Aiyo adhellaa venaa'nga. Naan unga rendu peru kittayum oru mukkiyamaana vishyam kaettutu polaa'nu dha vandhen"

(Oh no, that's not necessary. I came here to ask something more important )

"Mukkiyamaana vishyamaa? Enna vishyam sir kekanu?"

(Something important? What's so important that you want to ask us, sir?)

"Naan unga ponna naethu baby shower function'le dha paarthen. Romba azhaga paadeerndhaa.. paathadhum en wife dha enakku nyaabagam vandhaanga. Romba latchanamaa irukkaanga"

(I saw your daughter at the baby shower function yesterday. She looked really beautiful while singing. It reminded me of my wife. She also had such grace )

Appa glanced at me, and my heart raced more than I expected.

"Oh" 

He muttered.

I lowered my gaze, and mama continued speaking.

"Enakku irukkardhu orey magan dha. Ippo nallaa earn panneetu irukkaan. Aana avanukku oru football coaching centre aarambikanum'nu dha aasa. Adhu varaikum dha indha professor velai ellaam paapaan. Pasangala avanga dream'ku vidradhu dhane'nga nalla parents?"

(I have only one son. He's doing well now, earning decently. But he wants to start a football coaching center. Up until now, this professor job has been his only focus. Isn't it the dream of every parent to support their child's ambitions?)

Mama asked them with a smile, but both of my parents remained silent, exchanging uncertain glances.

"Seri. Romba suthi valaikkaama neraa vishyatha solleeren. Naan en paiyanukkum unga ponnu Seetha'kum kalyanam panni vaikka aasa padren. Adhaa ungalukku idhula samadham'ah nu kaettutu poga vandhen"

(Alright, without beating around the bush, I'll come straight to the point. I wish to get my son married to your daughter, Seetha. That's why I came here, to see if you agree to this)

Appa looked shocked, his eyes widening as he turned to glance at amma, who was standing behind him, her nervousness evident on her face.

My eyes began to well up with tears, as well.

"Ponna pethavanga neenga. So, neenga enna sol.."

(You are her parents, so what do you say..)

Appa stood up abruptly, making my heart race with panic.

"Sorry, sir. Neenga kelambalaam"

(Sorry, sir. You may leave)

I hurriedly moved to stand beside Appa.

"Ap.."

Before I could finish, he turned to me with a sharp glare that silenced me instantly. 

I gulped and turned my gaze towards Mama, my eyes full of apology. He frowned slightly but rose from the couch, his movements slow and deliberate.

"Mr. Shashtri, naan.."

(I..)

"Illa, sir. Nekku idhula udanpaadu illai"

(No, sir. I do not agree with this)

I tried to say something, but Amma grabbed my elbow and pulled me beside her, holding on tightly. Silent tears streamed down my face. 

Mama glanced at me briefly before shifting his gaze back to Appa.

"Yen'nu therinjukalaama, Mr. Shashtri?"

(May I know why, Mr. Shashtri?)

"Yen'na naanga yerkanave enga ponnu Seetha'ku vera edathula samandham paathaachu. Neenga varadhukku konja neram munnaadi dha thattu maathi muduchom"

(We have already arranged an alliance for our daughter, Seetha. Just a little while before you arrived, we finalized everything and exchanged the plates)

I gasped in shock, unable to process what I had just heard. They had already arranged everything, exchanged the plates and no one had bothered to tell me. 

No one asked for my opinion. 

No one cared about the feelings of the bride before her marriage to a complete stranger.

A wave of anger, frustration, and helplessness rose within me, consuming me from the inside.

"Ohh"

Mama glanced at me, but I held his gaze, my eyes burning with unspoken words.

However, he quickly turned his attention back to appa, clasping his hands together, and said,

"Manichirunga, Mr. Shashtri. Manichirunga. Manichirunga, ma. Naan appo kelamburen"

(Forgive me, Mr. Shashtri. Forgive me. Sorry, dear. I take my leave now)

Mama's voice softened as he apologized to appa, amma, and me as well, making me shake my head slightly, looking at him dejectedly. But he gave me a look before leaving, which made me feel a little less restless. Appa turned to me, his expression a mix of concern.

"Nee idhellaa onnum nenachukkaadha, paapa. Nee azhaga paadunadhu naala vandhu kekuraa pola. Nee poi rest edu po"

(Don't think about all this, dear. He might have asked like that after admiring your voice yesterday. Go and take some rest)

I gulped, standing there and opened my mouth to reveal everything to him, but,

"Room'ku po, Seetha. Amma nokku saadham eduthuttu varen"

(Go to your room, Seetha. I'll bring you some food)

Amma caught my wrist, and I ran to my room, slamming the door behind me. I locked it, pressing my back against it as I muffled my cries against my palms, trying to hold everything together. 

I wondered why Mama hadn't come just an hour earlier. Maybe if he had, there would have been a chance to change my parents minds, to make things right.

Two days passed in silence. His phone was switched off, and I had no idea where he was. 

He didn't know what I was going through. 

But, Mama called at the same night itself and said,

"Let's wait for a while, Seetha kannu. Naan edhaadhu pandren. Ennavaa irundhaalum nee dha en marumaga. Seriyaa? Aayush anniku morning'eh veetla irundhu engayo poitaan, ma. Kaettadhukku konja naal'le varen'nu sonnaan. Enga ponaan'nu therila. Elango kitta solleerken. Avan enna'nu paathuttu call pandren'nu sonnaan. Nee kavala padaama iru. Health paathukko"

(Let's wait for a while, Seetha dear. I'll do something. No matter what, you are my daughter-in-law. Okay? Aayush had gone somewhere that morning itself, ma. He said he'd be back in a few days. I don't know where he went. I've informed everything to Elango; he said he'll look into it and call me. Don't worry. Take care of your health)

I was lost in thought, replaying his words over and over, wondering where my man had gone. 

Is he still angry with me? Is he avoiding me? Is he going to leave me?

But I snapped back to reality when I felt a hand gently placed on my elbow, shaking me slightly. I lifted my face and met the gaze of Sai Krishna, who stood there with a smile.

"Ennaachu, Seetha?"

(What happened, Seetha?)

But, with a shake of my head, I pulled my arm away from his grasp and focused on the array of colorful sarees laid out before me.

"Seetha. Idhu paarunga. Azhaga irukku'le?"

(Seetha. Look at this. Isn't it beautiful?)

He asked, showing me the saree. I only noticed its red color, not paying attention to anything else before giving him a slight nod. He then silently turned to his parents and mine, speaking enthusiastically, while I stood there, exhausted from witnessing everything unfolding around me.

"Seetha kutty.. inga vaa kannadi'le vachu paakalaam"

(Seetha dear... come here, we can see it in the mirror)

His mother gently pulled me, and I stood in front of the mirror with the saree placed over my left shoulder.

"Kannadi paaru, ma. Evlo azhaga irukka paaru"

(Look in the mirror, ma. See how beautiful you looks)

I looked at my reflection in the mirror and nodded slightly, offering a faint smile.

"Aana idhukku blouse oru readymade irundhaa drape panni paathuttu vaangalaam"

(But if there was a ready-made blouse for this, we could drape it and see before buying)

She said and turned to speak with a salesperson, while I stood there, rooted to the spot.

"Nichiya podava, ma. Nannaa irukkanum"

(It's for the engagement. Should be perfect)

"Kandippa madam. Idho indha readymade blouse vachu katti paaka sollunga"

(Definitely, madam. Here, use this ready-made blouse and try it on)

"Thank you. Manni indhaanga. Seetha'ku idha potu paarunga"

(Thank you. Manni, put this for Seetha, and try it on)

Amma came over, caught my wrist, and we walked towards the trial room. She asked me to remove the saree and blouse I was already wearing and put on the new blouse before she could come inside.

I took the blouse and saree, entered the room, and locked the door behind me. Glancing at my phone for a moment, I placed it on the slab along with the new blouse and saree, then began to remove my saree, the tears threatening to spill. 

Just as I was about to take off my blouse, I heard a knock on the door.

I frowned, leaned sideways against the door, and called out to her.

"Amma?"

But I didn't hear anything except the knock, which grew louder. 

I gulped and grabbed my phone to call Amma, but I froze when I heard,

"Kadhava thora, di"

(Open the door, di)

My breath hitched, and without wasting a second, I opened the door. 

And, as soon as he stepped inside, before I could ask where he had been all these days, his eyes scanned me from head to toe. I then jerked as he kicked the door shut with his left leg, then glanced at my already discarded saree on the floor before looking at me. 

I quickly snapped back to reality, grabbed the saree from the floor, and clutched it to my chest in a messy grip, and then looked at him as he shifted his gaze from the saree hanging on the trial room rack to me, his brows furrowed.

"Is there any function at your house?"

I gulped, unsure how to explain. I silently nodded in response.

"And, what was that?"

My breath turned uneven as I stepped back, and he moved forward.

"I'm asking you, Seetha"

I knew that. But his powerful aura, hoarse voice, and those predatory, slow steps made me terrified like never before. I had never feared him like this. 

And the reason I was here, selecting a saree for a function... how could I explain that to him?

I then looked down at his feet, noticing his left shoe-clad foot resting on the saree selected by them for my engagement with that man, the fabric flowing on the floor from the couch. 

My eyes welled up with tears, and I glanced back at his face, which was a mixture of hurt and anger. But, I gasped when I bumped into the mirror wall behind me, swallowing hard as he continued moving closer. I quickly looked at the mirror again, then back at him.

"What is this for?"

He asked, pulling up the saree from the couch, his hand clenched around the fabric, his veins visibly strained.

"I..."

He was about to shout, the tension in his posture making it clear, but he stopped when a knock echoed on the door, followed by Sai Krishna's voice calling out my name.

"Seetha"

He turned his face to the left, and I caught a glimpse of his side profile before he turned back to me, his face expressionless, making me gulp.

"Seetha. Irukke'laa?"

(Are you there?)

I fisted the saree close to my chest with both hands, swallowing hard as I met his intense stare. My chest rose and fell with each harsh breath, the weight of the moment pressing down on me.

"Amma, indha sarees'uhm pottu paaka kudukka sonnaa.. vaangikire'laa?"

(Amma asked me to give these sarees as well for you to try on... Will you take them from me?)

Wetting my dry lips with my tongue, I noticed he had crossed his arms beneath his chest. There..  I realized that I needed to send Sai Krishna away right now before my professor lost his remaining patience. But,

"Seetha"

He threw the saree from his grip forcefully, making me shiver slightly, before crossing his arms beneath his chest again. I stammered,

"Haa.. ne..neenga enga amma've setha koopudre'laa?"

(Will you call my mother?)

My eyes met his, locked in a piercing gaze.

"Amma'laa keela men section'ku poitaa, Seetha. Naama mattum dha inga irukko. Adhaa.. vaangikittel'naa namma finalize panni poi solleedlaam"

(Amma and all has gone downstairs to the men's section, Seetha. It's just us here. If you're okay with these, we can finalize this and let her know )

His eyebrows arched, making me gulp as I lowered my head and murmured,

"Il..illa naan epdi.. neenga.. en appa irundhaavaadhu koopdungo. Please"

(N..no, I can't... Could you... please call my father instead? Please)

I heard his chuckle from the other end, causing my professor's jaw to tighten, his veined biceps visible through his tight ash-colored short-sleeve tshirt.

Perumaaley!

(God!)

"Neenga unga kai mattum veliya neetinel'naa naan kuduthuttu po poren. Naan enna ullayaa vara poren? Yen ivlo padhatta padrel?"

(Just extend your hand, and I'll give it to you and leave. Why are you getting scared as if I'm going to step inside?)

That was the breaking point for him to stay silent. He turned around, cursing under his breath,

"Fucking ass****"

In that instant, he stepped forward as if ready to slice off his head, but panic seized me, and I hurriedly clasped his left hand with both of mine to stop him. 

He stopped in place, but before either of us could react, Sai Kumar's voice interrupted, saying,

"Illa edhaadhu help venum'naa sollunga. I.."

(Orelse, just let me know if you need any help. I..)

⛄⛄

I was shoved against the mirror wall with force, his lips capturing mine in a kiss that was rough, intense, and demanding, leaving me breathless and weak at the knees.

I didn't struggle. I didn't resist. I didn't push back.

His kiss carried the weight of raw emotion—anger, frustration, hurt, and an undeniable love.

My fists clutched the saree tightly to my chest, but they didn't stay there for long. With a swift motion, he pinned my hands above my head against the mirrored wall, his right hand holding them firmly in place. His left hand pressed against my midriff, securing me where I stood. 

The saree slipped from my grasp, pooling softly at our feet.

His palm on my bare midriff radiated warmth, making me instinctively pull in my stomach as his thumb traced my skin with a soft, deliberate motion. 

Tilting his head, he deepened the kiss with an intensity that sent my head arching back. My toes instinctively stretched to meet his height, caught in the pull of his passion. And, with a groan, he pressed me firmly against the mirror behind me, his tongue exploring my mouth with a deliberate hunger that drew a soft moan from my lips.

His lips moved against mine, rough and relentless, his frustration spilling out in between murmured curses. My toes curled, and my body tensed in response. I gasped as his entire frame pressed against mine, his voice low and harsh as he whispered against my lips,

"Stop moving, Seetha. I'm not really in the mood to fuck you right here"

I gasped, his words sending a jolt through me, but he didn't stop. His lips claimed mine again with an intensity that left no room for thought, only feeling. His grip on my wrists, firm but not unbearable, sent a conflicting rush of pain and pleasure through me.

But, a trembling moan escaped as he pulled back, his lips parting from mine, only for his fingers to brush lightly over the center of my breast, over my blouse, drawing a sharp intake of breath.

"Getting married, aren't you?" 

He murmured, his voice low and laden with emotion.

Push him away, Seetha!

My mind screamed in protest, but even though my heart knew his touches were wrong, it still chose to melt for them-and for him, as usual.

My lips parted, releasing a shaky breath, but when his fingers began tracing slow, deliberate circles over the fabric, a shiver ran through me. I clenched my fists tightly, trying to hold onto whatever composure I had left.

My eyes opened partially when his nose grazed my cheek, then the crook of my neck, his breath hot against my skin, igniting sensations I couldn't control.

As my breath became uneven, I instinctively pressed my thighs together, desperately trying to find some grounding amidst the storm he was creating. But, his fingers continued their movements, each touch, and soft press intensifying the chaos inside me.

"You're preparing to marry someone else, isn't that right, Seetha?" 

He questioned, his voice steady but laced with something more—hurt, anger, and an ache.

It felt as though his voice was growing distant, even though he was right there, closer to me than anyone else ever could be.

Suddenly, he released my wrists, his grip gone, and then, made me to clutch the hanger above my head. When I instinctively tried to let go without having any energy left, my fingers tightened involuntarily as his hand slid behind me, firmly cupping my left butt. 

And, a loud, unrestrained, whimpering moan escaped my lips as he squeezed, pulling me closer against him, the movement leaving no space between us. 

"Look at me, Seetha"

His voice, deep and commanding, cut through the haze of sensations.

But I was breathing heavily, my mouth open wide, toes curling again, and my eyes squeezed shut even tighter as he whispered, brushing his lips over my ear, 

"I told you to look at me"

I gulped, feeling his face pull away from my ear. 

Then, slowly, I opened my eyes, locking onto his unwavering gaze as he asked, 

"You came here to change?" 

As I stared dazed into his eyes, he slowly moved his hand from above my chest to my waist, pulling me towards him, as though there was an invisible space between us. 

⛄⛄

Then, his voice came low and commanding,

"Change it off"

My eyes widened in shock, and his lips curled into a smirk as he pulled away, his gaze never leaving mine. I swallowed hard, feeling my throat tighten. My hands dropped from the hanger above me, and I braced myself against the mirror wall, the sweat starting to bead on my skin.

While I continued to stare at him, unsure if my ears had truly caught what he had said. But then he chuckled, a dangerous sound that sent a chill through me. 

"You heard me right. Change"

I parted my dry lips, my heart racing, and whispered hoarsely, 

"P... Professor?"

"Yes?"

He asked, his tone casual as he picked up the new saree and blouse from the couch. I took my steps back hurriedly, but,

He settled onto the sofa, placing the clothes across his lap. With one leg crossed over the other, he tugged the dollar of my locket towards the center of his chest, his hands resting casually on his thighs. Then, leaning back against the wall, his gaze remained fixed on me with a smirk.

But, I could only stare back in disbelief. 

Why is he acting like this now?

"Oi. Maathu" 

(Change)

I finally dropped my guard, glaring at him. 

"Enna ippo?" 

(What now?)

I demanded.

He raised an eyebrow in response. 

"Enna ippo'nah?"

(What?)

I shot him a sharp look and said, 

"Get out"

His left eyebrow arched in amusement as he smirked. 

"Who? Me?"

I nodded, tied my hands beneath my chest, firmly saying, 

"Aama"

(Yes)

But, he shook his head, unfazed. 

"I won't"

Frustration bubbled up inside me. I yanked the saree off from his lap and draped it over my blouse, adjusting it neatly, while he continued to sit there, watching me. 

I didn't care that he was staring—anger coursed through me like wildfire. He hadn't even bothered to apologize for disappearing for two days without a word, yet here he was, acting as though he owned me.

As I bent down slightly to adjust the pleats of my saree, I noticed his shoe-clad feet, but before I could fully straighten up, I corrected the saree over my bosom and turned to face him. 

"Ellaarum varadhukku munnaadi veliya ponga" 

(Leave from here before everyone comes)

I said, urging him to leave.

"Mmm"

He hummed in response, rising to his feet. I took a small step back, fixing my hair while standing in front of the mirror. But as I looked up, I felt his touch on my bare waist. His palm slid slowly toward my tummy beneath the saree, leaving me speechless once again.

"Acting cool? You didn't even get wet a little, Seetha?" 

His words hit me like a rush of cold air. 

I took a deep breath, standing frozen, unsure of how to respond. 

Everything felt dark—his touch, his commands, his kisses, his words, his breath, his eyes... everything.

And for his question, my answer was an immediate 'yes' from the very first moment his fingers touched me there.

Suddenly, his lips brushed against my nape as he buried his face in my hair, sending a shiver down my spine. 

And then, I heard his deep voice saying,

"But I won't act so cool like you. I'm really hard. Thanks to you"

Then, he let go of me and walked out of the trial room, leaving me flushed with heat. I stood there for a moment, dazed, but my thoughts were interrupted by the sharp sound of a slap.

I gasped and rushed out of the room, only to frown when I saw him leaning his bicep against the left wall of the narrow trial room way, hands shoved in his pockets, ankles crossed. 

But, my eyes widened as I saw my parents, Sai Krishna's parents, and Sai Krishna, standing in front of him. 

His hand was pressed to his left cheek, and everyone's expressions were a mix of shock and anger.

I hurried to stand beside him, keeping my gaze away from him. And, my throat tightened as I looked at my mother, who was glaring at me, her eyes narrowed in a way that made my heart race.

"Yaaru thambi neenga? En paiyana yen adichinga?" 

(Who are you, young man? Why did you slap my son?)

Sai Krishna's mother's voice boomed in anger, and I gasped. Turning, I lifted my face to look at him, and he muttered under his breath, 

"Thappu pannaa adichu dhane aaganum?" 

(If he did something wrong, shouldn't he be punished?)

Then, he looked at me, raising his eyebrows questioning, 

"Yen Seetha? Naan soldradhu correct dhane?"

(What Seetha? What I said is correct, right?)

I swallowed hard and turned my gaze back to the others.

"Thambi, ennaachu? Avaru enna thappu pannaaru? Avaru enga veetu maapla pa" 

(Young man, what happened? What wrong did he do? He is going to be the groom of our house)

My father's voice was stern, and I shut my eyes, lowering my gaze. 

He's just adding fuel to the fire.

I heard him respond, 

"Maapla'ah? Yaaru indha porukki'ah?" 

(Groom? Who? This rascal?)

My gaze flickered to the front again as he slapped his other cheek, softer this time.

"Hey!" 

Sai Krishna's mother stepped in front of her son protectively.

"Yaaru thambi neenga? Naanga solleete irukkom, neenga paatukku adichittu irukkel?" 

(Who are you, young man? We have been saying it, and you are still standing there slapping him?)

Her voice was sharp, and I opened my mouth to speak, but before I could, he said, 

"Naan Seetha oda professor"

(I am Seetha's professor)

Everyone's eyes, except my parents', fell on me. I gulped, feeling the weight of their stares.

"Oru professor'ah, I should protect her, right? And I did that"

(As a professor, I should protect her, right? And I did that) 

He shrugged, his tone casual.

Everyone, including me, stared at him in confusion.

"I was here for shopping. Appodha enna da yedho oru paiyan girls trial room section'ku poraane, seri enna pandraa'nu paakalaa'nu paathaa.. avan... ulla vartumaa? help pannatumaa'nu kettutu irundhaan. I immediately pulled him away and was about to have him arrested by the police, but, ulla irundhadhu Seetha'nu therinjadhum.. As a professor'ahh.. "

(I was here for shopping. When I saw him heading towards the girls' trial room section, I quietly followed him to see what he was up to. But when I heard him ask, 'Shall I come inside and help?' I immediately pulled him away and was about to have him arrested by the police. But when I found out that the person inside the room was Seetha, as her professor...)

He glanced at me before continuing, 

"I slapped him to protect her. And, if he dares to come near my student again, I will not hesitate to even kill him" 

He finished speaking while glaring at Sai Krishna deadly, as if he could burn him with just his eyes. But then, his gaze softened, and he turned to my father, asking,

"Ippo sollunga, naan pannadhu thappaa?"

(Now tell me, did I do something wrong?)

I took a deep breath, turning my attention to my father, who stepped forward and stood beside Sai Krishna. 

"Andha thambi soldradhulaa unmaiyaa, Sai?" 

(Is what that man said the truth, Sai?)

He asked.

Sai Krishna gulped, stammering, 

"Illa, mama. Naan summa tease dha pannen. Aana avanga rendu per..."

(No, mama. I was just teasing. But those two...)

I shut my eyes and flinched in place when he slapped his cheek.

"Tease'ah? En ponna tease pandra alavukku nokku engerndhu da dhairiyam vandhadhu?" 

(Teasing? Where did you get the courage to tease my daughter like that?)

My father's voice was thunderous.

Before I could react, Sai Krishna's father stepped forward, standing in front of my father. 

"Enna pandrel? Adhaa thattu maathiyaachu'le?" 

(What are you doing? Didn't we exchange the plates?)

He asked.

"Thattu mattum dha maatheerko. En ponnu un paiyanukku dha'nu oru mudivum innum aagala. Adhukku munnaadi un paiyan en ponnu nelal'eh nerunga muyarchi pannaalum adhu thappu dha"

(Just the plates were exchanged. There hasn't been any final decision that my daughter is for your son. Before that, even if your son tries to come near my daughter's shadow, it is wrong)

My father's anger flared up.

Suddenly, I felt his arm around my shoulder. I widened my eyes, tried to pull away, but he tugged me closer, bending down to my height, and whispered, nudging my arm, 

"Rowdy, cry"

I looked at him, eyes wide with shock. 

Rowdy? 

He pressed his lips together, nodding, while I, hesitated, and shook my head. But he gave me a mischievous smirk and, I pretended to wipe nonexistent tears from my eyes, pushing his hand away when it slid below my back waist.

"Niruthu, Maragadham. Paaru, en ponna alugura alavukku panni vachirukkaan. Ivanaa..." 

(Stop, Maragadham. Look, he has made my daughter cry to this extent. This guy...)

Amma tried to stop him from slapping Sai Krishna again, holding his hand.

"Yen'nah venaam. Namma maapla dhane'nah?" 

(Don't do this, dear. He is going to be our groom)

He turned and glared at her.

"Maapla'ah? Aaru? Ivanaa? En ponnu'kitta thappaa pesunavan yevanum en maapla aaga muidyaadhu. Andha seelaya kalatti veeseetu appa vaangi kuduthadha maatheetu vaa, paapa. Ivana nambi'laa ennaala en kozhandhaiya Canada varaikum anuppa mudiyaadhu. Nekku yevanaa irundhaalum en ponnu vaazhka dha mukkkiyam." 

(Groom? Who? Him? Anyone who speaks inappropriately to my daughter can never become her groom. Take off that saree, toss it aside, and come back with the one I gave you. I can't trust him enough to even send my child to Canada with him. No matter who it is, my daughter's life is my top priority.)

Appa retorted, his voice firm.

I sniffed dramatically and blinked my eyes at him as I stood there, while the two parents continued their heated exchange. Frowning, I turned to my left, only to see him pressing his hands on the store's dress counter. He pulled something out, like a bag, and left the place quietly. 

But, before walking out, he pecked the crook of my neck, making me squirm and turn to look back at the others. Sai Krishna was being pulled away by his parents, and they left in a hurry, saying something angrily to my father. 

But appa shouted back and then turned to look at me. I swallowed hard and, without thinking, rushed into his embrace. He wrapped his arms around me, holding me close as his hand gently caressed my hair, offering comfort.

"Sorry, paapa. Ini avan nokku venaam. Appa've mannichiru, da. Naan thappaana oru mudivu edukka poiten"

(Sorry, dear. You don't have to see him anymore. Please forgive me, child. I was about to make a wrong decision)

Without saying a word, I hugged him tightly, burying my happy, tear-streaked face in his chest.

Through the corner of my eyes, I glanced at Amma, only to catch her glaring at me. Panicking slightly, I quickly hid myself deeper in Appa's embrace, letting the happy tears flow freely. 

After all, I had succeeded in canceling my marriage with that curly-haired man. And to top it off, I managed to make him flee, all thanks to my professor's perfect timing, filled with mischief.

A soft smile formed on my lips as I snuggled closer to Appa's chest, feeling a newfound sense of relief and security. He continued to stroke my hair gently, his touch radiating warmth and comfort as my heart swelled with gratitude and peace.

Thank you perumaleyy!

Oruvaliyaa oru gandam mudunjadhu.

(Finally, one disaster has come to an end)

Important,

Now, along with his harshness, physique, eyes, yearnings, and kisses, I found myself falling for his mischief too.

************

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

Do you all know what? I was planning to make this chapter really serious, but it ended up filled with all this mischief.

Konjo kooda seriousness'eh illa 🤣😭

Please vote and comment guys. Can I expect 490+ votes at least for this chapter?

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