Hello 😀

Half century! 😻

Long chapter ahead ‼️

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴🏻‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Seetha

"Konjam aasai"

[Some hopes]

I spun around and rested my hands on my hips.

"konjam kanavu"

[Some dreams]

I smiled at Kamali, who was on a video call, sitting cross-legged on her bed.

"Ivai illaamal vaazhkaya?"

[What is life without these?]

I twirled again, flashing a wide smile at her, while she munched on her popcorn as if she were watching a movie or something.

"Nooru kanavugal kandalae

Aaru kanavugal palikadhaa"

[If I dream a hundred dreams, won't six of them come true?]

I danced forward, stepping with my left leg first, then my right, hopping with each step before spinning around and raising my hands.

"Kanavae kai seru vaa"

[Dreams, join hands with me]

I swayed my hips, twirled my fingers, and turned back with my palms clasped together, raising my brows as I looked at her.

She swallowed the popcorn in her mouth and said,

"Neeyum semma figure dha di maami. Sexy lady"

(You're such a great figure, girl. Sexy lady)

I giggled and flopped onto the bed beside the phone, propping my head up with my right hand while my left hand toyed with the simple gold chain around my neck.

My cheeks warmed as I bit my lips, replaying all the things he had done to me and how many times we had kissed in just one day. And, the thought of that red lace piece stirred a rush of hormones, and even the silly realization that he had touched my bra left me flushed in a deep crimson.

"Hey, maami. Enna kanna thorandhu vachutte kanavu kaandra?"

(Hey, maami. What are you dreaming with your eyes wide open?)

I snapped out of those thoughts when I heard Kamali's yell and flashed a grin at her.

"Kamali... Naan evlo lucky'le?"

(Kamali... How lucky am I, right?)

"Yedha vachu soldra?"

(Why are saying that now?)

"Nekku evlo handsome aana, romantic aana husband kedaikka poraa paaru"

(Look, I'm going to end up with such a handsome and romantic husband)

"Ohhoooo. Romba romantic'oh?"

(Oh. Is he so romantic?)

"Hehe"

I grinned at her.

"Vaaya paathaale theriyudhu"

(I could understand it by looking at your lips)

I bit my swollen lips and buried my face in the bed, whining softly.

"Seri, sinungaadha, di. Aana, maami, nee unmaiyaave romba lucky dha, di"

(Okay, stop whining. But seriously, maami, you're really lucky, you know?)

I frowned at her words, straightened up into my previous position, balancing my head on my hand with my elbow pressed against the mattress.

I looked at her, who was smiling at me genuinely, without a hint of teasing.

"Yedha pathi soldra?"

(What are you talking about?)

"Avaru unmela uyir'eh vachirukkaaru, Seetha"

(He has put his whole heart and soul into you, Seetha)

I frowned as she began explaining how he had planned to surprise me, how he worked day and night for it, and how he felt broken the night before today.

Her words left my eyes welling up with tears.

"Naan romba periya thappu panneeten, Kamali"

(I've made a huge mistake, Kamali)

"Seetha.."

"Yaaru sonnaalum naan ketrukka koodaadhu. Jolly'ku pandraanga'nu solli naan perusaa eduthukkaama vittadhu romba periya thappu.. avaru night fullaa evlo bayandhiruppaaru.. naan romba sadist'ah nadandhirukken Kamali"

(I shouldn't have accepted it from anyone who said it to me. Taking it as fun... it was a huge mistake. He must have been so scared the whole night... I acted so sadistically, Kamali)

"Hey, maami. Idhula un thappu yedhuvum illa, di"

(Hey, maami. There's no mistake of yours in this)

But, I shook my head.

"Illa.. ellaame en thappu dha. Avanga dha soldraanga'naa nekku enga pochu buthi? Naan avaala pathi yosikave illa. Paavam.."

(No... everything is my mistake. Even if they say it, where did my sense go? I didn't even think about him. Poor man..)

Tears rolled down my eyes, soaking my cheeks as they fell.

"Sir purunjuppaaru, di"

(Sir must have understood you, girl)

"Adhudha. Avaru purunjuppaaru'nu nenachu naan avangala prank panna vittadhu dha thappu. Oruvela avaru anniku enmela kovapattu varaama poyirundhaa? Enga rendu peroda life'uhm poyirukkum, Kamali. Naan adha pathi yosikave illa"

(Exactly. I thought he would have understood, so I went ahead and pranked him, which was wrong. What if he got so angry that he didn't even come to me that day? Both of our lives could have been ruined, Kamali. I didn't even think about that)

"Seetha.. adhaa onnum nadakala'le?"

(Seetha... didn't anything like that happen, right?)

"Hmm.. avaru romba kashta pattaaraa andha setup'laa ready pandradhukku?"

(Hmm... did he go through a lot to get that setup ready?)

"Aama, di. Orunaal night fullaa utkaandhu andha roses ellaame avare pin pannaaru. Aana adha unakku nerla kaamikka mudiyaama poyiruchu'nu romba odanju poitaaru"

(Yes, he did. He spent the whole night awake, arranging all those roses. But he got so anxious thinking he couldn't show them to you in person)

"Paavam'le? Nekku avaala paakanum polaye irukku"

(Poor man, right? I feel like I need to see him right now)

"Enna di soldra? Five hours dhane aachu?"

(What are you saying? It really been five hours, right?)

"Illa. Nekku paakanum. Naan apro koopudren, bye.."

(No. I want to see him. I'll call you later, bye..)

"Hey.. hey.."

But I declined the call, fixed my hair, draped the dupatta over my shoulders, and hurried down the stairs toward my parents' room. I found them with my aunt and uncle. They saw me, smiled, and gestured for me to come inside.

"Ulla vaa, paapa"

(Come inside, dear)

Appa said. I gave them a small smile, entered the room, and sat beside my father. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder and asked,

"Ennaachu, ma?"

(What happened, dear?)

I gulped, looked at him, and said,

"Appa.. nekku nalaiku college ponum, pa"

(Appa... I have to go to college tomorrow, pa)

His eyes squinted, and I straightened up from his hold, gulping nervously.

"Nalaikaa?"

(Tomorrow?)

"Mmm. Aama, pa. 6th and 7th semester marksheets, course completion certificates'laa provide pandraa, pa. Nalaiku dha varanum'nu solleerkaa"

(Mmm. Yes, pa. They're providing the 6th and 7th semester marksheets and course completion certificates, pa. They said we should arrive tomorrow)

"Yen? Innoru naal poi vaanga mudiyaadhaa?"

(Why? Can't you go and get it some other day?)

"Therila, pa. Nalaiku dha vara solleerkaa"

(I don't know, pa. They said we should come tomorrow)

"Enna di ippo soldra? Mani ippove 8 aayiduthu. Ini epdi kelambi poradhu?"

(Why are you saying this now? It's already 8 o'clock. How can we go now?)

Amma scolded me, but I pressed my lips together and lowered my gaze, avoiding her eyes.

"College'le ippodha solleerpaanga. Adhukku ava enna pannuvaa, Ananthi? Poi kelambunga.. Muthu, 9 manikku ingerndhu oru ooty bus irukkum illa?"

(Maybe her college just informed her now. What will she do about that, Ananthi? Go and get ready... Muthu, isn't there an Ooty bus from here at 9 o'clock?)

Appa asked my uncle, who was sitting in front of us with his wife, looking at us.

I glanced at him as he replied,

"Irukkum dha nenaikiren. Naan paakuren. Illanaa.. car'le poidunga"

(I think there is one. I'll check. Otherwise... you can go by car)

"Car'laa venaa, anna. Ivaru night neram epdi ottuvaaru? Bus irukkaa'nu paarungo"

(Not by car, brother. How will he drive at night? Check if there's a bus)

Amma said to her brother-my uncle.

"Seri, ma paakuren. Neenga ready aagunga"

(Okay, I'll check, ma. You get ready)

Amma hummed and stood up, and I thanked Appa before following Amma. I helped her pack our things, and after bidding goodbye to every relative, we reached the bus stop at 8:50 sharp. Finally, after boarding the bus and sitting by the window, I let out a sigh of relief.

I looked at the photo of him that I had taken for the first time in the rain with my umbrella, during our first bus ride at night. Smiling, I caressed it with my fingers.

He had gone through so much in those three days, even more than me. I'm sorry, Professor.

When we reached home after five hours of travel, I went straight to my room, pacing around as I tried to figure out how to see him in the morning. I dialed Mama's number, but it went unanswered. So, I decided not to disturb him, remembering he had mentioned an emergency at his clinic.

"Mch, ippo enna'nu solleetu anga poradhu?"

(Mch, how will I go there now?)

I stood beside the window, gazing at his house, which was dark with no lights on.

He might have already slept.

Sighing, I leaned back against the wall, still looking at his house amidst the dark night. I don't remember when I fell asleep, but when I opened my heavy eyelids, I frowned, then jerked upright, realizing I had drifted off without thinking about a plan.

But, the door suddenly opened, making me jump to my feet. And, I turned to see my mother standing there, her eyes narrowed as she looked at me.

"Seetha..."

"Amma"

"Enna pandra? Thoongalayaa?"

(What are you doing? Didn't you sleep?)

I gulped, unsure of what to say, as she walked towards me and stood right in front of me.

"Ennaachu, da?"

(What happened, dear?)

"Amma.."

"Enna, ma? Yen oru maadhiri irukka? Ennaachu?"

(What's wrong, ma? Why are you looking like this? What happened?)

"Adhu.. Aa..Aayush, sir'ku fe..fever. Aahn.. fever pola, ma"

(That... Aa... Aayush, sir has a... a fever. I think it's a fever, ma)

"Acho. Enna da soldra?"

(Oh, no. What are you saying?)

"Aam..aama, ma. Mama vera emergency'nu clinic'ku poitaa. Sir thaniyaa dha irukkaa pola. Nek..nekku avaala poi paakanum. Aana neengalum, appa'uhm enna solluvinga'nu theriyala. Adhaa yosichutte utkaandhirundhen"

(Yeah... yeah, ma. Mama went to the clinic for emergency. Sir seems to be alone. I... I should go see him. But I don't know what you and appa will say. That's why I was thinking and stayed here)

"Enna Seetha nee? Maaplai'ku odambu seri illa'nu soldra. Naama poi paakaama irundhaa epdi? Idhula naanga unna enna solla poro?"

(What, Seetha? You're saying your fiance isn't well. How can we just stay here without going to see him? What should we say to you in this situation?)

I gulped, standing there, feeling guilty for lying to her and about his health.

Perumaaley. Avaru health'ku onnum vandhura koodaadhu. Avaa nannaa irukkanum.

(God. Nothing should go wrong with his health. He should be healthy)

"Seri, nee fresh aagi kuluchuttu poi paaru. Naan appa've company'ku anuppi vachuttu anga varen"

(Alright, freshen up, take a bath and you go first. I'll send Appa to the company and then I'll come there)

I suppressed my wide smile and nodded at her. She patted my cheek before leaving the room.

Once the door was closed, I quickly locked it behind me and rushed into the restroom. Stripping off my clothes, I took a quick bath, then changed into a white kurta and pants.

After placing a little bindi between my eyebrows, I combed through my hair, which still felt sticky from the previous day's head bath. I braided it neatly and grabbed my phone and orange coloured dupatta.

Flying out of the room, I explained his condition once again to my mother and father. After receiving their approval to go, I rushed out of the house and headed straight to his place.

As I approached, I reminded myself that Mama might still be at his house. So, I quickly straightened myself up, making sure I looked presentable, and knocked on the door.

But, to my surprise, the door was locked from the outside.

"Enna pooteerku?"

(Why it is locked?)

Frowning, I looked around, scanning the surroundings before moving towards the parking area. My eyes immediately caught sight of his bike, parked in its usual spot. Relief washed over me, knowing that he must be inside, but the locked door still left me confused. I hesitated for a moment, wondering what to do next.

"Bike irukke. Pinna enga ponaaru? Early morning'le apdi enna vela ivarukku.."

(His bike is here. But where could he have gone? What could he be doing so early in the morning?)

I pouted my lips in disappointment and turned to leave, but my steps abruptly halted as I heard heavy breathing sounds coming from the room beside the parking.

I gulped.

"Early morning'le laa pei varumaa?"

(Would a ghost come in the early morning?)

Fidgeting with my dupatta, I hesitated for a moment, torn between following the breathing sounds or waiting for him by the entrance.

But as the sounds grew louder and more distinct, I realized they were all too familiar-his labored breaths, the same ones I'd heard when he was close to me, panting after sharing a kiss.

Unable to resist, I slowly moved towards the room, but, stopped in my tracks when I saw the incredible scene before me.

My mouth fell open, and my eyes widened, unable to look away.

His body was flexing with every movement, each muscle tightening as he worked.

His muscular back was exposed to me as he lay on the declined black bench, lifting himself up and lowering back down, alternating the motion while gripping what looked like an iron plate.

The way his arms flexed, the sweat dripping from his tousled hair, and the rapid pace of his breathing left me frozen in place, mesmerized by the intensity of it all.

But as soon as he stood up, my heart skipped a beat. Panicking, I quickly stepped back, hiding myself behind the wall, clutching my chest with my palm, afraid of being caught.

But, even after a minute, there was no sound, just the unsettling grunting noise that made me shiver slightly. So, I leaned in a little to peek inside, my eyes following his every movement.

He was suspended in the air, gripping the iron rod above him, his ankles crossed as he pulled his body up until his face hovered just above the bar, then descended again, repeating the motion.

It was mesmerizing, and I felt a bead of sweat trickle down my temple as I watched. My throat went dry as my gaze moved over his flexed biceps, his shorts riding above his knees, revealing strong legs and visible veins in his calves. His thighs were partially exposed, but I was momentarily distracted and when I jolted, my phone slipping from my hand and hitting the floor with a loud thud.

I widened my eyes, then, heard the unexpected words,

"Wanna join, babe?"

Exhaling a long-held breath, I lifted my face and stared at him, goosebumps prickling across my skin as he gradually slowed down the pull-ups and dropped to his feet.

In that moment, I thought,

Take the phone, turn around, and run.

But my feet remained frozen to the ground as he turned towards me, flashing that irresistibly hot smirk that made my toes curl.

Then, shaking his head, he grabbed the sandal-colored sponge towel from the bench to wipe his face, neck, and...

His bare chest!

I bent down quickly, snatching my phone, ready to turn and leave as soon as possible.

But I froze when I heard him say,

"Stay!"

Nannaa maatna di Seetha nee.

(You're caught, Seetha)

I gulped, slowly turning to face him, only to find him already taking his predatory steps towards me.

The towel draped over his left shoulder, and just as I tried to turn and escape again, his hand closed around my wrist. My eyes widened, and before I could react, he swiftly twirled me towards him. I collided with his bare torso with a soft gasp, the impact sending a wave of heat through me.

Lifting my gaze from the mole on his chest to meet his eyes, which were locked onto mine, I felt a lump form in my throat. I swallowed hard, trying to steady my racing heartbeat.

But, my eyes shut instantly as my shoulders tensed and my neck tilted, unable to control the reaction when his hand gently lifted to my face, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear before his long fingers lightly brushed the side of my neck.

And I squeezed my eyes even tighter, my chest rising and falling with heavy breaths as I felt his warm breath against my shoulder and the gentle graze of his lips against my ear.

His voice, dark and deep, sent a shiver through me as he whispered,

"Are you wearing something underneath your top, like a camisole or slip?"

The intensity of his tone made me feel as if I were floating in the air.

And the question he asked made me widen my eyes. As I wondered how to respond, I jerked slightly when I felt his palm move towards the cut of my kurta at my waist. I quickly stopped him, lifting my face to meet his gaze.

He was already looking at me, his brows raised in a questioning manner, making me gulp. And, with no other choice, I gave a slight nod, confirming that I was wearing a torso camisole, one that reached just below my waist.

But what happened next was far more intimidating than I could have imagined.

He smirked, his voice low as he asked,

"So.. gym'ku vandhuttu workout pannaama ponaa epdi? Shall we?"

(So... what's the point of coming to the gym and leaving without working out? Shall we?)

I found myself staring into his eyes, my throat tight as his gaze slowly traced down my face-my eyes, nose, philtrum, lips, chin, collarbones-before returning to mine again.

And, I slowly closed my eyes as I felt my dupatta deliberately slipping away from my neck and chest in slow motion. My damp hands instinctively clenched the fabric of my kurta near my thighs.

But, my eyes fluttered open when I felt his palm gently cup my left cheek.

I gazed into his eyes, but I jerked back in shock when the sharp thud of a door closing behind us echoed through the room. And, as I quickly turned to see if anyone had seen us, he pushed me firmly against the closed door, pinning my left arm above my head, his intense gaze forcing me to look up at him in fear.

"Prof..."

"Shhh!"

His harsh 'shush' made my toes curl again. And, he leaned down, his lips brushing against my shoulder before he whispered,

"You can put up your other hand too if you truly want me to take off your top!"

I gasped in shock, my mind reeling.

Take off my top?

In front of him?

How could that possibly happen?

I stared into his eyes, searching for any hint of teasing, but they held a genuine and intense seriousness as he pulled his face back from my shoulder to meet my gaze directly.

"You don't want to?"

He asked, raising his eyebrows in a suggestive manner, his voice steady, leaving me frozen in place, swallowing hard without saying a word.

What was he expecting me to say?

Take off my top?

Just the thought of it made my cheeks burn red, and I squirmed under his piercing gaze.

How could I possibly say that out loud? That's... that's crossing every line imaginable.

"Alright. Appo ipdiye nillu.."

(Alright. Then stay like this)

He stepped back slightly, but just as I began to lower my right hand from above my head, he grabbed it again with a swift motion, pinning it back in place.

My eyes widened and his gaze dropped to my lips as he said,

"Anjey nimisham. I want you to stay here like this..."

(Five minutes. I want you to stay here like this...)

His eyes lingered on my hand, still pinned above my head, before returning to meet mine.

"With your right hand staying up there..."

He continued, his voice low and deliberate.

"And if you truly want me to strip off your top... you can lift your other hand too... as a signal, perhaps!"

He finished with a smirk, and I felt my lips parting and trembling. My other hand, still fisting the fabric of my kurta, tightened its grip even more as an inexplicable rush coursed through me.

And, when I continued to watch him in silence, he took a step back and turned towards the equipments stacked in the corner of the gym. My gaze stayed glued to him, my right hand still pinned above me, as he grabbed what looked like a barbell with two iron plates on either side.

I wasn't sure of its exact name, but it was clearly heavy.

He approached me with measured steps, his face expressionless, and placed the barbell directly in front of me, between our feet. I frowned, unsure of what he was doing, and watched as he straightened up.

Then, his gloved right hand rose toward his lips, and I froze when his teeth gripped the edge of the glove at his index finger. A shiver ran through me as he pulled it off with a deliberate motion before doing the same to his other hand.

I averted my gaze immediately, gulping hard, my thoughts spiraling.

Why does he look like a starving man who's just found his first meal in years?

Taking a deep, shaky breath, I tried to steady myself, but before I could, I felt my body instinctively press against the door behind me as he leaned down.

His head was so close that the top of it nearly brushed against my abdomen.

I stared at him, wide-eyed, as he gripped the barbell and raised it with a strained expression, his muscles tightening to reveal the effort it took. He placed it back down and lifted himself upright, repeating the motion several times.

Each time he lowered himself, his face moved from the level of my abdomen up to my chest before returning to his full height.

The sheer proximity and his gaze-steadfast and piercing-left me breathless, despite the fact that I was fully clothed.

My breaths turned shallow and rapid as I felt the intensity of his attention, every movement of his gaze making my skin prickle with awareness.

Then, what felt like an eternity passed, and just as I was on the verge of shouting at him to stop, he finally straightened up, placing the barbell aside.

He stood before me, his chest rising and falling with harsh breaths, his torso, face, and neck glistening with sweat. I gulped, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks as he took another few steps back.

I cursed myself inwardly for the mindset that had brought me here in the first place.

Why did I think coming here was a good idea?

Just as I was lost in my thoughts, he suddenly knelt down before me.

My eyes shut tightly in response, and I whispered a silent prayer in my mind,

Perumaaley! Enna epdiyaachu kaapaathu, pa!

But when his heavy, puffing breaths reached my ears, I couldn't help but open one eye cautiously, then the other. And, my heart skipped a beat as I saw him now performing something like a push-ups.

His knees pressed into the floor, calves and feet upright, palms firm against the surface as he pushed his body up and down rhythmically. Each motion seemed to radiate strain, and the occasional groan from him felt like a jolt to my nerves.

I couldn't look away, my gaze fixated on him.

The intensity of the moment, the sound of his groans-it all felt overwhelming. I clenched my kurta tightly, my thoughts racing as I debated how to make this stop.

Finally, unable to bear the tension any longer, I made a decision.

With trembling resolve, I unclenched my fist from the fabric and slowly raised my shaky left hand above my head to mirror my right.

Then I met his gaze. His sweat-dampened lashes lifted, and a smirk curled on his lips.

"You want me to remove your top, my little one?"

He asked, his voice breathy, yet teasing.

Shame and heat flooded me all at once, but I found myself nodding ever so slightly, my face burning.

But then his next words hit me like a storm.

"But I won't"

My eyes widened in disbelief, a surge of anger and frustration bubbling within me.

What?

"What? Do you feel cheated?"

He asked, his tone laced with mockery as he stood up, panting.

And, I shot him a glare, but that only made him chuckle darkly.

Placing his hands on his hips, he tilted his head slightly to the left and said,

"Naan sollumbodhey nee panneerndhaa, naane remove panneerpen. Ippo unakku pudicha maadhiri dhane panneerka...? adhanaala..."

(If you had done it when I asked you to, I could have removed it. But it seems like you did it only when you felt like it, right? So...)

I swallowed hard, my nerves on edge.

"Adhanaala?"

(So?)

I managed to ask, my voice trembling.

He stepped closer, placing his palms against the door behind me, framing my face on either side.

Then, leaning in even closer, the space between us so minimal that our eyelashes could almost brush with a blink, he whispered,

"Remove it yourself!"

He finished with a smirk, his eyes challenging me.

But, a gasp escaped my lips, my face heating up in shock and disbelief.

And, without thinking, I placed my palms on his bare chest and gave him a firm shove, forcing him to step back. Turning on my heel, I muttered sharply,

"Poyaa yov!"

(Go away, man!)

But, I squealed, my fists pounding against his arms as I shouted for him to leave me. However, my protests were silenced when he pinned me firmly against the wall behind me now once again. And, my hands were raised and held securely above my head once again.

His voice, deep and commanding, cut through the air as I struggled to breathe,

"Take it off!"

My eyes widened in shock, meeting his gaze-dark, intense, and full of purpose.

Then, my voice shook as I whispered,

"Kaiya vidunga"

(Leave my hand)

And I felt his gaze shift, the darkness in his eyes softening into something more tender.

"Seetha.."

"Vidunga"

(Leave me)

I struggled slightly in his grip, but then he gently placed his other hand on my chin, tilting my head up. His thumb traced the outline of my lips, sending a shiver down my spine.

"I am sorry"

He whispered, his eyes not meeting mine.

That's when the realization hit me-why I had come here.

But before I could respond, he spoke again.

"I am sorry, Seetha. Nee eppavum enna vittu kuduthu pesunadhu illa, enakkaaga you came back to me again and again even though I pushed you away from my life. But, idhellaam yosikkaama, andha nerathula I.. I doubted you"

(I am sorry, Seetha. You never gave up on me, even though I pushed you away from my life again and again. But, without thinking about all of this, at that time I... I doubted you)

I narrowed my brows at his words.

"Doubted me?"

"Yes. Nee vera yaarkoodayo kalyanam panna pora'nu nenachu.. I thought you had ch..cheated on me"

(Yes. I thought you were going to marry someone else... I thought you had... cheated on me)

I stared at him, unable to believe his words, but he avoided meeting my gaze. Gently tilting my face to the left, he brushed his lips against my cheek, and I could feel the roughness of his beard and mustache against my skin as he whispered,

"Will you forgive me?"

I inhaled deeply, the scent of his sweat mixing with the air, and then said,

"Anniku night when I returned home from the police station, you know what happened? My appa and amma asked, 'Nokku un professor'eh kalyanam senjukka ishtam'ah nu..' "

(That night when I returned home from the police station, you know what happened? My parents asked, 'Do you really want to marry your professor?')

He pulled his face away from my cheek, and looked at me, more shocked than ever. I smiled and began sharing the flashback of what had happened, explaining how my parents had come to accept our marriage.

FLASHBACK

"Nokku un professor'eh kalyanam senjukka ishtam'ah, Seetha?"

(Do you really want to marry your professor, Seetha?)

Appa's question made my eyes widen in surprise. I turned to Amma, who stood beside him, smiling warmly at me. My gaze shifted between the two of them, a mix of confusion and shock written all over my face.

"Avaa appa anniku naama aathukku vandhu unna ponnu kekkumbodhey, nekku illai nu solla manasu varla, di ma. Aana appo irundha soolnilai'le enna pandradhu'nu theriyaama dha avaala anuppi vachen. Aana ranganadhar seidha seiyal'eh paarthiyaa? nokkum, andha Sai Krishna'ku nadakka irundha kalyanatha niruthi en baaratha yerakiittaa.. nekku andha Aayush thambi dha unna nannaa paathuppaa'nu thondradhu. Un mudivu ennavaa irundhaalum appa'ku samadham dha. Innoru dhadava un vaazhkai'le velaadra shakthi nekku illa, paapa"

(When his father came to our house that day to ask for your hand in marriage, I just couldn't bring myself to say no, ma. But at that time, given the circumstances, I didn't know what else to do, so I sent him away. But did you see what Ranganadhar has done? He stopped the wedding that was about to happen between you and that Sai Krishna and took on the burden himself... I feel that Aayush will take good care of you. Whatever your decision may be, Appa will accept it. I just don't have the strength to intervene in your life again, paapa)

He explained calmly, his voice steady, accompanied by a warm smile. And that was the breaking point for me. I burst into sobs, running into my appa's arms, hugging him tightly as if trying to soak in all the warmth, security, and love he had always given me. He gently caressed my hair, his touch soothing, as I clung to him, overwhelmed with emotions.

"Ennaachu, Seetha?"

(What happened, Seetha?)

"Appa.."

"Nokku pudikala'naa nekkum pudikala, di ma. Azhugaadha, kozhandha"

(If you don't like it, I don't like it either, ma. Don't cry, my child)

"Appa.. nekku indha kalyanathula samadham dha, pa"

(Appa... I'm okay with this marriage, pa)

I said, feeling his arms tighten around me. He let out a soft chuckle before turning to my mother and asking,

"Ananthi? Naan edutha mudivula nokku samadham dhaane?"

(Ananthi? You're okay with the decision I made, right?)

"Naama yerkanave pesunadhu dhaane'nah? Nekku idhula mulu samadham"

(We already discussed this, didn't we? I'm completely okay with this)

I pulled back and looked at Amma in shock at her unexpected words.

She smiled, and I happily hugged her too.

"Yaarunaalayum unna avaa pola paathukka mudiyaadhu'nu amma purunjukutten, di Seetha. Amma've mannichiru"

(I realized, Seetha, that no one can take care of you like he does. Forgive your amma)

She whispered softly in my ear. I looked at her, and she gently cupped my face, pressing a tender kiss on my forehead.

"Sandhoshamaa iru. Andha thambi oda appa kittayum pesiyaachu police station'le irukkumbodhu. Avarukkum idhula samadham dha. Nalaike namma ooru'le unakkum, andha thambi'ku nichiyadhaartham. Kelambalaamaa?"

(Be happy. I already spoke with that man's father when we were at the police station. He's okay with this as well. Tomorrow, we'll have your engagement with that boy in our hometown. Shall we leave now?)

I gasped in shock and quickly turned to my left, catching a glimpse of Appa walking out of the living room, phone pressed to his ear as he attended a call.

"Aahn.. sollungo.."

(Yeah.. tell me..)

And I turned back to look at my mother, confusion etched on my face, as I softly asked,

"Amma?"

"Naan nokku anniku raathri paal kuduthuttu polaam'nu un araiku vandhabodhu, andha thambi unakku propose panneerndha audio naan ketten, Seetha. Unna pokkisham pola paathuppen'nu soldraa.. adha vida petha amma'ku enna venum sollu? Mathadhu ellaame kaetten.. nee evlo avaala kaadhalikira, avaa unna evlo kaadhalikiraa'nu purunjukutten. Adhaa un appa'te police station'ku veliya nikkumbodhey, nee kadhalikira vishyatha pathi ellaam sollaama.. summa nalla thambi'ah irukkaa thirmba vena kalyana vishyatha pathi kaettu paarungo'nu sonnen. Aana adhukku munnaadi, andha thambi'oda appa've mun vandhu romba shaanthamaa kettaaru.. un appa enna nenachaa'nlaa nekku theriyaadhu.. aana odane en paapa kitta kaettundu soldren'nu solleetaa.. adhaa ippo kaettaa.."

(When I came to your room that night with milk, thinking you'd have it before bed, I overheard the audio message that thambi had sent you, proposing to you, Seetha. He said he'd cherish you like a treasure... Tell me, what more could a mother ask for? I listened to everything after that, how much you love him and how deeply he loves you. I understood it all. That's why, when your appa was waiting outside the police station, I suggested he speak about the marriage without making it obvious. I just asked him to consider the matter after verifying what kind of person your man was. But before your appa could initiate, your sir's father calmly approached and spoke about it himself. I don't know what your appa thought at that moment, but right away, he said, 'Let me ask my daughter first, and I'll let you know' That's what he's asking you about now..)

I smiled through my tears, and she gently wiped them away from my cheeks, her touch filled with warmth and reassurance.

"Sandhoshamaa iru di ma. Amma pesunadhu ellaam manasula vachukkaadha"

(Be happy, dear. Don't take everything Amma said to heart)

"Maa.. thanks, ma.. thanks.."

I hugged her tightly once more, as she hugged me back and kissed my cheek.

Excitement bubbled within me-I was so eager to call my professor and share the news about our engagement plans. But before I could reach for my phone, I was interrupted by familiar voices at the doorstep-Mama and Elango sir.

"Seetha"

They called.

I turned around, unable to hide the wide smile that spread across my face. But I quickly composed myself, refraining from addressing them as Mama and Anna. After all, Appa still didn't know the full truth-that this wasn't just an arranged marriage. It was a love-cum-arranged marriage-a secret known only to me, him, Amma, Kamali, Charan, Mama, and my Jaya Aththai.

I shyly lowered my head, standing beside Amma, while the elders discussed the arrangements for the next day's engagement in our hometown.

My mind wandered, brainstorming ways to surprise him with the news. But before I could dwell too much, I was snapped out of my thoughts by a voice.

"Thangachi"

(Sissy)

Elango Anna called.

I glanced up at him, standing beside me.

"Anna?"

(Bro?)

I responded softly, curiosity evident in my tone.

"Avanta idha epdi sollalaam'nu yosichuttu irundhanaa adha marandhuru. Adhellaa naan paathukuren"

(If you were thinking about how to tell him all this, forgot about it. I'll take care of it)

I frowned and glanced at the others who were in the conversation before looking back at Anna.

He said,

"Konjam prank panna poren, en friend'eh.."

(I'm going to prank my friend)

"Prank'ah?"

(A prank?)

"Aama. Avankoodave dha naan ivlo varshamaa irukken. Aana enkitta avan unna love pandraan'nu sollave illa. Adhaa revenge'ah oru prank panlaa'nu irukken"

(Yes, I've been with him for so many years, but he never said that he loves you to me. So, I think I should either prank him or take revenge on him)

I blinked at him.

"Yedhukku'nah? Avaa paavam.."

(Why, bro? He is such a poor man..)

"Summa jolly'ku dhane? Please.. avana naan kooptu varuven. Aana avan avanoda sondha engagement'ku dha varaane theriyaadha maadhiri kooptu varuven. Please?"

(Is it just for fun? Please... I'll go and make him come there. But he'll only come for his own engagement, not realizing I'm calling him for that. Please?)

"Aiyo, anna. Paavam anna"

(Oh no, bro. I feel pity for him, bro)

"Thango, nee onnume seiya venaam. Just, avan phone calls, messages attend pannaama irundhaa podhum"

(Dear, you don't need to do anything. Just make sure you don't attend any of his calls or messages. That's enough)

He said casually, but I widened my eyes and shook my head vigorously, denying the idea, saying,

"Mudiyave mudiyaadhu. Avaru yedha venaa thaangippaaru aana naan ignore pandradha mattum thaangikavae maataaru.. venaa, anna"

(It won't work. He will tolerate anything, but he won't be able to when I ignore him. No, brother)

"Deii, thango. Please, da. Nee dha innike oorukku poiduva'le? Onnum aagaadhu. Avana anga kooptu vara vendiyadhu en poruppu. Neee bayapadaadha. One night dhane? Please.. anna'kaaga?"

(Hey, dear. Please. You will be going to your hometown tonight, right? Nothing will happen, I'll make sure to bring him there at the right time. It's my responsibility. Don't be scared. Just one night, okay? Please... for your brother?)

I bit my lower lip, avoiding his gaze, as I thought about the consequences, which seemed really difficult. But reluctantly, I agreed with anna, as he kept pleading with me and asking me to switch off my phone. I did, just before leaving with my parents to my hometown, silently praying to Perumaal for our engagement to go smoothly and be filled only with love.

FLASHBACK ENDS

I finished with a chuckle, noticing the disbelief on his face. He sighed, releasing my chin and placing that hand beside my face, while his other hand still held my hands firmly above my head.

"Semma comedy'le?"

(Isn't this a great comedy?)

I asked him between chuckles, but then gulped and stole a quick glance at him when he shot me a glare.

"Kovamaa irukkelaa?"

(Are you angry with me?)

"Illa.. romba sandhoshamaa irukken"

(No... I am feeling very happy)

He said with a fake wide smile. I held back my laughter and replied,

"Awww! How sweet'uh. Apdiye kaiya vitrungalen?"

(Awww! How sweet. Would you leave my hands like that as well?)

But he looked at me in disbelief.

"Seriously, Seetha? Naan apdiye kovathula poyirundhaa enna panneerpa?"

(Seriously, Seetha? If I had gone with that angrily, what would you have done?)

He spat, but I smiled coolly and said,

"Ahn. Adhellaa nadakaadhu, boss. Naan dha en perumaal kitta pettition potu vachirundhane, ungala epdiyaadhu anga enga oorukku vara vachirunum'nu"

(Ahn. That won't happen, boss. I've already submitted a petition to my Perumaal, so no matter what happens, I know you'll you come to my hometown safely)

"Enna legal documents'laa submit panniyaa? petition'ku?"

(Did you submit it in legal documents? For a petition?)

"Aama"

(Yes)

I said with a smile, looking straight into his eyes.

"Enna documents?"

(What documents?)

He asked with the same smile, and I said,

"Solla mudiyaadhu"

(I won't say)

He clicked his tongue and gripped my wrists above my head tightly, leaning in and brushing his lips against mine, causing me to shut my eyes and my breath to hitch as he said,

"Seri, sorry sollu.."

(Alright, apologize now..)

Avlodhaanaa?

(That's it?)

"Sorry"

I said with a shrug.

He laughed and pulled back, and I grinned at him as I opened my eyes. He then asked,

"Yen di ivlo cute'ah irukka?"

(Why are you so cute?)

I smiled and leaned back comfortably against the wall, tilting my head upwards as I relaxed and said,

"Mch, seri, neenga sorry sollunga.."

(Mch, okay, you say sorry now...)

But,

"Naanaa? Yedhukku?"

(Me? For what?)

"Yedhukkaa? naan ungala cheat pannuven'nu nenachinga'le? Sorry sollunga.."

(For what, huh? Didn't you think I would cheat on you? Say sorry...)

He sighed, eyeing my lips, and whispered,

"Seri, sorry. Ippo top remove pannu"

(Okay, sorry. Now remove your top)

I looked at him with widened eyes, unsure if he was serious.

Innum adha marakkalayaa?

(Still haven't forgotten that?)

"Illa purila?"

(I don't understand?)

"Adhaa camisole potrukka'le? Kalattu, di. Blouse laye inch by inch paathutten. Don't waste my time now!"

(Aren't you wearing a camisole? Take it off. Even, I was watching you inch by inch in the blouse. Don't waste my time now!)

I twisted my lips, letting out a heavy sigh as my resolve began to waver.

And, with a timid look, I turned my back to him, tossed my hair forward, exposing my nape, silently signaling him to do as he asked.

At that time, a strange mix of thrill and shameless comfort washed over me in his presence.

After all, I was still in my camisole.

With a smirk, I crossed my arms beneath my chest, but when I felt his breath warm against my ear and heard his whisper,

"Put your hands up"

I obeyed, slowly raising my arms with a tremor in my movements, and my breath becoming heavier as his face brushed against my nape for a fleeting moment.

Then.. I felt his hands catch the edge of my kurta, lifting it off of me, leaving me in just my camisole and bra beneath it.

But, before I could lower my arms or ask anything, he leaned forward and kissed the center of my back, just above my camisole. The sudden touch made me shudder, and I gasped as his arms wrapped around my knees.

In an instant, my world flipped.

I found myself hoisted over his shoulder, completely upside down.

His left hand supported my back, and he began walking, leaving me in complete shock.

"Mr... enna pandrel?"

(Mr.. what are you doing?)

I stammered, my voice both shy and exasperated.

"Hmm... Going to be Mrs.'ku gym trainer aaga poren"

(Hmm... I'm going to be a gym trainer for a going to be Mrs.)

He teased, his tone dripping with playful mischief.

And, as he adjusted his grip, I felt myself slipping slightly forward, his hands shifting to wrap around my lower body.

My cheeks burned, a blush spreading as his hold steadied me.

"Vekka pattadhu podhum, di. Mela irukka rod'eh pudi"

(Enough of your blushing, di. Now, grip the rod above your head)

He grunted with a teasing smirk.

Jerking in surprise at his words, I feigned an angry expression and reached out, flustered, gripping the barbell above us.

My shy, blushing smile soon turned into one of curiosity as I prepared to do pull-ups for the first time in my life, and that too under the guidance of him-my professor.

"Okay, I'm going to leave you now. Steady yourself and cross your ankles like I did before"

He instructed.

I beamed, about to follow his instructions, but then I paused, biting my lips and asked,

"Ankles epdi cross pannanu?"

(How should I cross my ankles?)

He smirked, lifting his face towards mine, his chin brushing lightly against my bare stomach as my camisole moved up a little and he teased,

"Unakku theriyaadhu'le?"

(You don't know?)

I shrugged my shoulders, suppressing the tickling sensation of his hot breath on my bare stomach, and asked,

"Enakkepdi theriyum?"

(How would I know?)

He adjusted me in his hold, lips pressed together, before saying,

"Okay, appo naan vidren. Nee ipdiye thongeete iru"

(Okay, then I'll leave. You stay like this)

He let go of me, and I gripped the rod, crossed my ankles like he had did, immediately, my eyes widening in fear.

"Ahhh. Perumaaley! Please, please, please... nekku theriyum. Naan summa dha sonnen. Pudinga, please!"

(Ahhh. Oh my God! Please, please, please... I know. I was just joking. Please, stop, please!)

I exclaimed, dangling in the air, gripping the rod above my head. But, he watched me with a smile, his left hand crossed over his chest, the index and middle fingers of his right hand resting over his lips.

Though he looked irresistibly cute, I couldn't help but pout and whine,

"Please. Naan unkooda nooru varsham vaazhanum, professor"

(Please. I want to live a hundred years with you, professor)

Repeating a line from a movie I had seen years ago.

He laughed, wrapping his arms around my waist.

"Vaai vaai vaai"

(Such a whiner you are!)

I sighed in relief, letting go of the rod and placing my hands on his bare shoulders, patting them twice, saying,

"Keela vidunga"

(Let me down)

He gently lowered me back to my feet, but my eyes grew wider, wider and wider as his arms brushed against my bare sides and his palms grazed my bare back and the hooks of my bra in the process.

I stared at him, eyes wide, mouth agape, while his eyes sparkled with amusement as well.

Pushing him away immediately, I pulled down my camisole, blushing like a crazy woman.

"Achacho! En maanam ellaam pogudhey!"

(Oh no! My dignity is slipping away!)

Hearing his chuckle, I tilted my head upward, catching sight of his smile as he shook his head in amusement. He then walked toward the door, bending down to pick up my dupatta and kurta from the floor.

Yet, my eyes were fixated on him-his well-built, muscular frame captivating my gaze, leaving me unable to blink or look away.

I couldn't tear my gaze away as he casually tossed my dupatta and top over his left shoulder, the motion so effortless. Then, without missing a beat, he picked up his gym gloves from the floor, slipping them on with practiced ease.

Gripping the weighted barbell firmly in his hands, he turned and walked back towads me.

I instinctively wet my dried lips with my tongue, my gaze glued to his bare torso, glistening under the soft, early morning sunlight filtering through the curtains drawn over the windows of his gym room.

The subtle sheen of sweat highlighted the curves of his toned chest, where a small patch of hair and a lone mole added to the rugged charm that left me utterly stunned.

But when my focus was entirely on him, I suddenly jumped in place, taking a few steps back involuntarily as he placed the barbell on the floor with a soft thud. Before I could recover from the sudden jolt, I lost my balance unexpectedly, and my foot slipped on something. Out of sheer instinct, I reached out for something to steady myself. A hand wrapped around my waist, and before I knew it, I was falling onto something soft with a thud.

And, I groaned, feeling his weight press down on me, as I felt him hovering over me.

Over me?

I gasped, my eyes snapping open to find him actually, truly, completely hovering over me.

His bare upper body was inches from mine, and his hands supported on the floor beside my face on either side.

"Baghavaaney!"

(God!)

My heart raced as I gulped, finding him staring into my eyes with an intensity that seemed to erase everything else around us. His gaze lingered on my eyes, so focused, while my own gaze drifted upwards to his tousled hair, damp with sweat, clinging slightly to his forehead.

Then, his trimmed mustache and beard framed his sharp jawline, and his pointed nose, along with his parted pink lips, made my breath hitch. I clenched my thighs and curled my toes instinctively, trying to suppress the tension building within me.

And when I glanced back into his eyes, they darted down to my lips, making them tremble on their own. My lips parted slightly, and as if caught in a daze, I lifted my head from the floor instantly, drawn in like a magnet, and pressed my lips to his.

I was utterly spellbound!

☃️☃️

The rough tickle of his mustache and beard sent a shiver through me. I paused, holding my breath, waiting for him to respond.

And, he did that, with a slow, deliberate grace that made my heart race even faster.

But when his tongue gently brushed against my lips, a soft moan escaped me, and instinctively, I wrapped my arms around his shoulders, pulling him more closer.

My eyes fluttered shut in a rush of need.

Groaning, he deepened the kiss, tilting his head to explore further, and I matched his rhythm, surrendering to the intensity.

It wasn't new to us-our kisses had always been this consuming-but this one carried an overwhelming passion that made our heart race, each beat echoing together.

As the minutes passed, our passion deepened, whimpers and groans blending together as the room was filled with the sound of our fervent kisses, each soft moan and wet suction amplifying the charged atmosphere.

My left hand slid from the nape of his neck down to his back, seeking to feel his toned muscles beneath my touch, while my other hand gripped his hair tightly behind his head. But before I could linger, he quickly pinned both of my hands above my head, holding them firmly in place.

And, I gasped audibly, eyes widened, a sharp breath escaping my lips as he finally pulled away from our intense kiss.

Before I could fully recover, a long exhale of breath turned into a whimper, my eyes fluttering shut again as he shifted his attention to my neck.

His lips traced the sensitive curve of my neck, sucking, biting, and licking with an intensity that made me gasp and squirm beneath him.

My eyes fluttered open through the haze of sensation, and I saw him leaning over me, his presence casting a shadow as he hovered close. His knees were positioned near my thighs, and our gazes locked as he took a breath, his lips slightly parted, making him look undeniably hot, handsome and irresistible. In that moment, I felt incredibly lucky to have this Greek god in my life forever.

Slowly and unexpectedly, his fingers pulled up my camisole as well, looking straight into my eyes and kept it above my bra, exposing my bra-clad breast to his eyes, his hands steady as they caressed my flesh, sending a shudder through me, as I felt myself jolting from the floor a little.

Then, my heart quickened as his dark gaze travelled from my eyes to my lips, and then farther down, making me choke, close my eyes instantly, and then I arched reflexively with a slow moan as he kissed my neck again.

"Aahh!"

A faint scream escaped from me as his lips travelled down from my neck, touching my collarbone and then my left bosom over my bra, forcing my back to arch unconsciously, but he firmly lowered me back down, his hand warm and hard against my naked stomach. I let out a quivering moan, unknown feelings swirling inside me as his lips moved slowly across my exposed midriff.

As his kisses and nibbles slowed after what felt like minutes, I opened my eyes, swallowing hard and lifted my head slightly from the floor, only to meet his gaze, already locked with mine-intense and focused, his eyes dark with undeniable intent.

But, my breath hitched, and I quickly wriggled free from his hold, my hands reaching for his hair and shoulder or something to stop him from going any further. But before I could steady myself, a shiver ran through me as his lips kissed down my midriff to my bare stomach, just above my navel, his touch making my body tremble.

I bit down on my lower lip to stifle another gasp, but my resolve faltered as I felt him move lower, his rough hands gripping my upper arms firmly, holding me in place. However, my hands instinctively gripped his hair and shoulders for support, and I shut my eyes tightly as a surge of unfamiliar heat coursed through me, making my body tremble with intensity when he kissed my navel, his tongue trailing delicately before a gentle bite.

Lost in the intensity of his continued focus on my navel, I began to speak, a soft plea escaping me without my realization.

"Plea..."

But before I could finish, he silenced me with his lips on mine.

I melted into the kiss instantly, not wasting a moment, matching his rhythm with an urgency that neither of us could seem to control.

He groaned softly into my mouth, and a dazed, weightless feeling washed over me, as though I was floating, when one of his hand moved to cradle my left bosom gently, sending waves of warmth through me that made my body twist and arch in response to the sensation of a manly touch for the first time in my life-especially from my love.

The overwhelming emotion left my closed eyes glistening with tears.

And, with his rough, unhesitating, dominant touch, he began to knead it slowly, still kissing my lips, making me feel as though I might lose consciousness, overwhelmed by the intoxicating sensation of his love-meant solely for me.

☃️☃️

As everything reached its climax, I collapsed back onto the floor, panting heavily as he pulled away. My chest rose and fell rapidly, each breath a struggle to reclaim the air I had lost.

Then, as I felt myself returning to a grounded state, my breath gradually steadying after the overwhelming rush of emotions, his voice pierced through the haze-a low, intimate whisper,

"How was it?"

A small smile tugged at my lips as a flush warmed my cheeks. Slowly, I opened my eyes to meet his, finding his face hovering close to mine, his body resting beside me on the floor. Instinctively, my hand reached out to cup his left, bearded cheek, my fingers brushing the warmth of his skin just beneath his eye.

In the soft glow of the room, his face looked even more majestic, as though it belonged to a dream.

"What... what just happened?"

I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, laced with a mix of awe and curiosity.

He chuckled, the sound warm and comforting. Then, taking my hand in his, he brought it to his lips and kissed the inside of my palm with tender care before sitting upright.

Stretching his legs out in front of him, he leaned back on his hands, palms pressed against the floor. A dimpled smile graced his face, and my gaze lingered on the soft red flush coloring his ears-a charming contrast to his usually composed demeanor.

I smiled softly, exhaling slowly, my hands resting on my bare stomach where my camisole was still scrunched up above my bra. Strangely, I felt no urgency to pull it down, my mind completely absorbed in the moment.

Then, clearing my throat, I teasingly broke the silence.

"Professor vekka padraar!"

(The professor is getting shy!)

I said in a sing-song tone, a playful grin lighting up my face.

He turned to glance at me over his shoulder, his expression softening before he reached out, gently pulling my camisole back down to cover me.

"Not more than my student"

He replied with a subtle smirk.

Our gazes locked for a moment before we both broke into quiet laughter, the warmth of our shared blush lingering in the air.

It was a moment neither of us would forget-marked by tenderness, discovery, and a bond that felt unshakably real after our first, heavy romance.

Then, after a minute of shared silence, I noticed him lost in his thoughts, his gaze distant. Quietly, I shifted myself closer, resting my head on the side of his left waist, partly over his stomach, and closed my eyes.

The soothing warmth of his body and the rhythmic rise and fall of his breathing grounded me.

And, I felt a slight movement before his hand found its way to my hair, caressing it softly.

He then pinched my cheek gently, breaking the silence.

"Polaamaa? Veetla enna solleetu vandha early morning'eh?"

(Shall we go? What did you say at home to come here so early in the morning?)

I smiled faintly, savoring the deliberate tenderness of his hand in my hair, and replied,

"Ungalukku odambu seri illa. Paathukka aarum veetla illa'nu solleetu vandhen. Apro, naanga inniku oorla irundhirukka vendiyadhu. Aana inga ungala paaka varadhukkaaga, college'le marksheets provide pandraanga'nu poi solleetu night 3 manikke inga vandhutten"

(You have a fever, so I told them that no one is at your house to take care of you and came here. I also had to stay in my hometown today. But to meet you here, I lied and said I needed to collect the marksheets at the college, and we reached here at 3 AM itself)

"Mmm... mm..."

He muttered, tucking stray strands of hair behind my ear and patting my cheek affectionately.

"Seri, get up. Dress panniko"

(Alright, get up. Get dressed)

"Mhumm"

I mumbled, burying myself deeper against him, comfortably lying on his stomach.

He sighed, a mix of amusement and exasperation in his tone.

"Sonnaa kelu, di. Romba neram aachu. Veetla thaeda poraanga"

(Listen to me, dear. It's been a long time. Your parents might be looking for you at home)

But I remained where I was, a playful smile dancing on my lips. But, before I could revel in my stubborn victory, I let out a squeal of surprise as he lifted me effortlessly from the floor.

My arms instinctively wrapped around his neck as I looked down to see his left hand alone supporting me beneath my thighs. I giggled, my eyes wide with disbelief.

He winked at me, effortlessly adjusting his hold, and carried me in a proper bridal style.

I laughed, marveling at his strength.

"Ungalukku enna paathaa epdi theriyudhu? Ipdi thooki velaadeetu irukkinga?"

(How do I seem to you? How are you lifting me and playing me like this?)

He didn't respond immediately, his expression turning thoughtful.

"Mmmm..."

"Enna?"

(What?)

I prompted.

"Illa, konjo worth'uh dha"

(No, it's just a little worth)

He replied with a teasing smile.

I frowned, narrowing my eyes.

"Ennadhu?"

(What?)

His gaze met mine, his smile widening as he replied,

"Nee dha"

(You)

I processed his words, glared at him, mock indignation coloring my tone.

"Ohh. Konjo worth'ah?"

(Ohh. A little worth, huh?)

He chuckled, avoiding my glare.

"Konjam dhane worth? Apro yen thooki vachirukkinga? Yerakki vidunga"

(Is it just a little worth? Then why are you lifting me up like this? Let me go)

I retorted, testing him.

But to my dismay, he played along, gently lowering me back to my feet.

I pouted, hoping he'd do something else, but instead, he bent down and picked up my kurta.

And, my lips curved into a smile as I watched him carefully pick the correct side of the kurta.

He smiled back, motioning for me to lift my arms.

Without hesitation, I raised them with a grin, and he chuckled softly as he slipped the kurta over me, pulling it down neatly

After that, when he leaned down to my height, his face mere inches from mine, I closed my eyes, expecting a kiss. But instead, I felt a light pat on my shoulders.

I opened my eyes with a frown, catching his amused expression as he draped my dupatta over my shoulders.

Huffing in mock annoyance, I looked down at myself and back at him. His chuckle filled the room, his playful demeanor as frustrating as it was endearing.

With a soft smile, he gently twirled me, placing his hands on my shoulders. I frowned slightly, but a smile tugged at my lips again.

Standing there with my arms crossed beneath my chest, I felt his fingers deftly braiding my hair. The warmth of his touch and the quiet care he put into every movement made my heart flutter.

"Done"

He announced softly.

I reached up to touch the braid, running my fingers along its length, before turning to face him. A smile spread wide across my face as I looked up at him.

He smiled back, cupping my cheeks with his large, warm hands, and kissed my forehead gently. I closed my eyes, leaning into his touch, holding his elbows as his warmth enveloped me.

Pulling back, he grabbed his loose black vest from the bench beside us and slipped it over his shoulders. And, I stepped closer, smoothing it down with a soft touch, ensuring it sat neatly before looking up at him.

He looked into my eyes with a smile, taking my hands in his and pressing a tender kiss to my knuckles.

"Vaa"

(Come)

He said, holding my wrist gently.

He began walking forward, and I allowed him to guide me beside him. My eyes stayed on him, admiring the way his fingers ran through his messy hair then his hand stretched out to grab his phone and key from the table.

He grasped them with his long fingers as we walked outside.

But, the sudden burst of sunlight made my eyes squint, and his hand instinctively guided mine to rest on his forearm. Instead, I held his bicep for support, using his frame to shield myself from the sunrays.

Then, I glanced up at him sheepishly, smiling as he looked at me with amused eyes, busy locking the gym room.

And, I whined when he mischievously tilted his head aside, letting the sunlight fall on me again.

"Kelambu, di"

(Leave, girl)

He teased, laughing, and I swatted at his hand as it tugged at my nose, smiling despite myself.

Fidgeting with my dupatta, I looked into his eyes. Our gazes met briefly, and I stood on my toes, pretending to peer over his shoulder. His brows furrowed as he turned to see what I was looking at, and I seized the moment. Leaning in, I planted a quick kiss on his bearded cheek before darting away, giggling.

He turned around with a playful glare, but his voice softened as he shouted,

"I love you!"

I stopped, turning back with a bright smile. Pressing a kiss into my palm, I blew it towards him, watching his expression soften.

With happy giggles, I turned on my heels, twirling down the road as the warmth of his love filled my heart, taking everything he had shown me into something new and beautiful.

And as I reached the entrance of my house, I slowed my steps, adjusted my dupatta neatly over my shoulders, and stepped inside with a small smile.

Amma was coming out just then and paused when she saw me.

"Seetha, enna seekram vandhutta? Maapla epdi irukkaaru?"

(Seetha, why did you come back so soon? How is your fiance doing?)

She asked, concern evident in her voice.

Clearing my throat, I forced a smile and replied,

"Nallaarukkaaru, ma. Slight fever dha, ippo paravala"

(He's doing well, ma. Just a slight fever, but he's fine now)

She nodded thoughtfully.

"Oh, seri seri. Ippo enna pandraar?"

(Oh, okay, okay. What is he doing now?)

I scrambled for a convincing answer and quickly said,

"Kulikka ponaaru, ma. College'ku kelambeetu irukkaaru. Naan evening poi paathukalaa'nu vandhutten"

(He has gone to take a bath, ma. He'll be going to college. I came here thinking I will check on him in the evening)

Her brows furrowed slightly.

"Mch, naan varlaam'nu dha di nenachen. Aana un appa've kelappi vidave neram correct'ah irundhadhu. Naan venaa poi paathukattumaa?"

(Mch, I thought of coming there, but the timing was just right to send your dad off for work. Shall I go and check on him now?)

Alarmed, I hurriedly interjected,

"No no, ma. Avaru nalla dha irukkaaru. Fever vandhaa thaniyaa irukkanum'nu dha ma nenappaaru. Naama evening poi paakalaam. Vaa..."

(No, no, ma. He's fine. He alway just wanted to stay alone when the fever hit. We can go check on him in the evening. Come...)

I wrapped my arm around her shoulder and gently steered her back inside the house, letting out a silent sigh of relief. But just as I was about to retreat into my room, her voice stopped me in my tracks.

"Nee inniku college poganum'nu sonna'le?"

(Didn't you say you had to go to college today?)

Oh, my Perumaaleyy!

My heart skipped a beat as I gulped and turned around, flashing the most innocent smile I could muster.

"Aama, ma"

(Yes, ma)

I replied sheepishly.

"Mmm. Maapla vandhaa avarodaye poidu. Nanna veyil adikardhu. Apro low pressure'le engayaadhu mayangi vilundhudaadha. Illanaa oru naal leave potukko anga inga'nu alanjadhukku. Maaplai'te solli marksheets'laa vaangi vachuda solla mudiyumaa'nu paaru"

(Mmm. See if you can go with your fiancé to college. It's really hot outside, and you might feel dizzy or faint due to the low pressure. Otherwise, just take a day off since we've been roaming around a lot these past two days. Also, check if you can ask your sir to fetch the marksheets on your behalf)

She chided, walking towards the kitchen.

I pouted at her mild scolding but smiled as she disappeared into the kitchen. Quickly, I slipped into my room, locked the door behind me, and grabbed my phone to call him.

He picked up almost instantly, his voice calm and teasing.

"Sollunga, madam?"

(Tell me, madam?)

I smiled at his tone and replied,

"Sir, nekku inniku college'ku leave venu"

(Sir, I need leave from college today)

I asked him casually.

"Yen, madam? Marksheets tharadhaa solli unga hometown'le irundhu inga vandhinga? Ippo ennaachu?"

(Why, madam? You came all the way here from your hometown saying you need to collect the marksheets. What happened now?)

He asked, his tone laced with amusement.

I smiled wide and replied,

"Haan... adhu.. nekku setha tired'ah irukku"

(Haan... that's because... I'm feeling a bit tired)

"Tired'ah? Yen? Tired aagura alavukku enna panninga?"

(Tired? Why? What did you do to get so tired?)

Biting my lip, I admitted,

"En gym trainer nekku konjo adhigamaa vela kuduthuttaa"

(My gym trainer gave me an extra intense workout)

He chuckled softly and whispered, asking,

"Seri, sollu. You got wet, didn't you?"

(Okay, tell me. You got wet, didn't you?)

I blushed, glancing at my palms still damp with sweat, and murmured,

"Wet mattumaa?"

(Just wet?)

I heard him gasp on the other end, his tone a mix of shock and amusement, as he asked,

"Really? Babe, did you release then?"

His words made me frown in confusion. So, I asked,

"Release? Apdinaa?"

(Release? What do you mean by that?)

But he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

"What?"

I narrowed my brows.

Why is he getting so shocked by everything now?

"Ennaachu ungalukku ippo?"

(What happened to you now?)

He sighed dramatically and asked,

"Hey Seetha... Tell me something. What does it mean to get wet?"

I squinted at the odd question and replied,

"Sweat dhaane?"

(Doesn't it mean sweating?)

"Sweat'ah?"

(Sweating?)

He yelled in shock, leaving me even more confused as I replied,

"Aama"

(Yes)

"Seriously, Seetha? Idhukku dha naan ivlo naal wet, wet'nu sollumbodhu'laa blush panniyaa?"

(Seriously, Seetha? For this, you've been blushing every time I say 'getting wet'?)

"Aama"

(Yeah)

I said again, feeling defensive.

"Whattt? Sweat aaguradhula enna di vekkam unakku?"

(What? What's the reason for blushing about sweating?)

He whined like a kid in disbelief.

"Aama. Neenga eppavum enkooda close'ah irundha apro apdi keppel, nekku appo vekkam dhane varum?"

(Yes. Whenever you're close to me, you ask things like that always, that's when I start feeling shy)

I explained, but he groaned on the other end and after a few seconds of silence, he whispered,

"So... so... what did you think when I mentioned that I am hard?"

I paused to think, remembering the time he said he was 'hard' and thanked me for it, then replied,

"Hard'na hard dha"

(Hard is hard)

"Haan?"

Clicking my tongue, I clarified,

"Unga muscles hard aagudhu'nu nenachen"

(I thought your muscles were getting hard)

"Muscles'ahhh? Ennaa muscles'uhhh?"

(Muscles? What muscles?)

"Kaiyu, kaal'uh muscles dha"

(Your hands and legs muscles)

I replied confidently.

"Aiyoooooooo! Raamaaaa!"

(God!!!!)

But, he exclaimed dramatically, making me feel both sad and amused for him.

"Ennaachu, professor?"

(What's wrong, professor?)

I asked, concerned.

But he cut in, exclaiming, again,

"Adiyei!"

(You woman!)

Before adding,

"Seri... adhellaaame vidu. Do you at least know how to have sex?"

(Okay... forget all that. Do you at least know how to have sex?)

The way he said 'at least' ignited a real spark of indignation in me.

"Hello, sir. I know how to do sex. Naan biology'le padichirukken. Girl school naalae enga mam super'ah solli thandhaanga. Nekku nook and corner ellaame theriyum. Don't underestimate me!"

(Hello, sir. I know how to have sex. I studied biology. In my school days, our teacher used to explain it very well. I know every nook and corner of it. Don't underestimate me!)

I snapped, feeling defensive, but he chuckled on the other end, clearly entertained.

"Biology?"

"Aama"

(Yes)

"Nalla theriyudhu"

(I could see it)

"Ennadhu?"

(What?)

"En thalai'ku pinnaadi oli vattam"

(The bright circle of my future shining behind my head)

Knitting my brows, I asked,

"Oli vattamaa?"

(The bright circle?)

"Aama. Theriyanum'le?"

(Yes. Shouldn't that be visible?)

He teased before adding,

"Seri nee ippo poi enna pandra... unga aathula edhaadhu teddy bear irundhaa katti puduchu thoongi rest edukura. Naan... oru moonu naaluku leave eduthukuren. Apro vandhu.. enna pannanumo pandren. Bye"

(Okay, let me tell you what you should do now... if you have any teddy bear at home, hug it and sleep for a while. And me... I am going to take leave for three days. After that, I'll do whatever needs to be done. Okay? Bye)

His voice sounded muffled as he spoke, but I still frowned and said,

"I love you"

"Yeah, I love you so much, darling. Rest well. You really need it a lot. After all, you got wet, right? No, not wet. Actually, it's sweating, right? Haha... bye"

He laughed at the end, his tone completely mocking.

Before I could say anything, the call ended.

I stared at the declined call screen on my phone, thinking,

Loosaageetaaro?

(Did he get mad or something?)

Shaking my head, I muttered a quick prayer to my Perumaal to give some sense to my fiancé.

Pulling the comforter over my chest, I slowly drifted to sleep, my thoughts lingering on our intense moments, a constant smile playing on my lips even as I slept.

**********

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

So, how was the romance, guyssss!? 🌚

Please vote and comment ❤🙏

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