Days passed like that. Vihaan got busy with his upcoming project and office works, but that didnt stop him from taking excuses in the evening and getting out of the office in disguise to pick up his mom. His mom also grew suspicious about his constant visit to their college. She knew something was amiss without her prime knowledge.

And whenever she enquired him, he chided off her telling the same words that "what if you cause another accident" which made Ramya twist her son's ears.

Some days he got to see Jwala ,while some other days he couldn't. And that disappointed expression would be etched on his face for the rest of the day. After that day he didnt get to talk to her still. He was not sure about the feelings he was experiencing. Though he wanted to distance himself from all these stuffs, something kept dragging him towards her.

Jwala on the other hand was busy with her own world. Teaching , preparing notes and studying classes were all making her occupied. But in all this, she was enjoying what she was doing. The students also respected her. They scored much better marks with her encourage and support. She made sure that she took utmost care of the least studious student even. Rithika and Jwala bonded much more well as friends.

Rithika was more of a fun person. They went for an outing the last weekend and it was real fun. Jwala saw another side of her childish friend.

In the mall,

"Hey..Jwala...come on lets go for that roller coaster ride" Rithika exclaimed excitedly.

"No way. Im not coming" Jwala gave a horrified expression..

"What's this yaar ? It will be fun" She dragged her and took two tickets.

Jwala closed her eyes tight and fisted the kurta she wore.

"Calm down Jwaluuu..."

She shot down a glare to Rithika.

"Abbo...dont burn me down with that gaze" She chuckled.

Jwala screamed when the ride started and held Rithika's palm tight.

Once it stopped Jwala took a long breath and got down panting.

"I wont come with you to anywhere from now on" She took long strides, her face flushed with red from the previous adventure

"Arey sorry yaar...wait for me"

Jwala turned her face away and walked.

"Okay im really sorry. Wont repeat it again. I'll buy an ice cream for you. Forgive me please" She pouted cutely making Jwala laugh.

"Finally... pheww !!!"

"But dare you force me for these adventures. You know how scared I'm, for all these right ? Still ?"

"It was an experience right ? Hehe..."

"Close your mouth otherwise your teeth will be on the ground"

"Whoa girl !! So daring..." Rithika chuckled and made a hands up.

They went to the cafeteria and ordered food.
It was a pretty nice cafe, the warm lights and soothing atmosphere made both of them feel at peace. They talked about college and their upcoming activities. Rithika never left a chance to gossip other staffs which made Jwala giggle and pinch her arms sometimes.

"You shouldn't gossip like these about others, Rithu. It's bad"

"Hello madam ? Those are truth ..not just gossips. Whole college knows. And im just telling to you only"

"Okay. Fine...but dont tell these to others..we can't believe anyone fully because they might spread it like a wildfire"

"Done"

Their orders came.

Rithika had ordered a chicken fried rice while Jwala had ordered masala dosa.

"Mmm..this fried rice seems so good" Rithika inhaled taking in the aroma.

"Yeah seems like" Jwala smiled

Before she could dig in, Jwala felt a tap on her shoulder.

She turned around and saw Abhiram there.

"Hi Jwala, did i disturb you ?" He gave his charming smile.

"No..actually..i.. come on sit here"

Rithika frowned seeing him who was a complete stranger to her.

He sat on the chair.

"What a surprise seeing you here !" He exclaimed.

"We just came for an outing as its weekend. Oh i forgot to introduce. This is Rithika, my colleague and Rithu this is Abhiram, my old school mate"

Rithika smiled and they exchanged a hello.

"So what's up Abhi ? Let me order something for you"

"No, Jwala im fine. I just came to buy few clothes thats it"

"Thats not fair. You have to have" Rithika compelled.

"I had some works but..."

"Food first, works later" Rithika cut him off.

"She is right"

"Well..if you insist.. otherwise you wont let me go from here right.."

The trio chuckled and had food together sharing laughter, food and memories of their school and college times.

At the end Rithika too had made Abhiram, her friend. He was such an easy person to interact.

"I'll take a leave now. Shall i drop you both ?"

"No Abhi. Its alright. This girl has some more shopping to do" Jwala said.

"Okay. Carry on then. See you later"

"See you later. Bye.." Jwala smiled

"Bye Abhi.." Rithika waved him.

Once he was away, Rithika nudged Jwala's shoulders with hers.

"You didn't tell me you had such a hot friend"

Jwala rolled her eyes.

"He is so nice. Awww the way he shared jokes with us..his smile and everything...ufff..
Does he have a girlfriend ?"

"You could have asked him directly no"

Rithika pouted while Jwala knocked her friend's head lightly.

"Has anyone proposed you ?"

"Me ? Yes .. a lot during college days...but like you say im waiting for my dream man..."

Jwala smiled when she said, dream man.. she is yet to find him...or has she already found one ?
Suddenly she saw a display advertisement on the mall screen where she got stunned seeing Vihaan as one of the top 10 entrepreneurs of Asia.

Rithika was checking her phone because of that she failed to notice Jwala's surprised face.

After few more shopping, they decided that time was getting late and they went to their respective houses.
_____________________________________________

Vihaan was pondering over something, his fingers tapped the pencil to his lips as he nonchalantly swayed in his recliner.

Everytime he closed his eyes trying to concentrate on his work, only her smile occupied his mind.

"Shucks ! I should do something about this. How would i get her number from amma's phone ?"

Why would you need her number ?

None of your business.

An idea popped in his mind and he searched her name on social media accounts. As he scrolled through many pages, he couldn't see any pne that belonged to her.

"How about i go and tell her that she isnt letting me sleep even ? Ewww ...that sounds stupid and cringe. Vihaan you weren't like this.."

"Its been many days since we talked... whenever i try to talk to her, one or other person would be around her or amma will arrive soon"

He called his P.A after taking a break from his thoughts.

"Yes sir ?"

"Do we have any appointments today ?"

"No important appointments today, sir. But we have to mail the finalised plan"

"Oh..I'll do it soon. Thanks for reminding"

"It's my duty, sir"

"Umm...i want to ask something. Do you have a boyfriend ?"

Aanandhi got surprised and raised her eyebrows slightly before answering.

"Yes sir"

"Hmm..good...you can go"

She went from there confused with his words.

Rest of the day went with mailing important documents and attending small meetings.

Time was around evening and Vihaan went to the college to pick his mom up.

He saw that the college was almost dispersed. Vihaan kept constantly looking at his watch. He waited for 20 minutes. His eyes scanned the premises not leaving each staff who came out. Jwala was also not seen there.

"Did the college disperse early ? Where is amma ?"

With an irritated groan he dialled her number.

The first call went unanswered.
He dialled again. At the 4th ring, she picked up the call.

"Hello amma ? Where are you ?"

"Im at home, Vihu"

"What ??? Are you serious ? I have been waiting for you for the past 20 minutes. Couldn't you have informed me ?" He whisper yelled on the phone.

"I had already messaged you saying I'll be early and you dont have to wait for me. Didnt call you because you i thought you might be busy"

"Hmm..okay"

"Come home soon"

"Fine. Im coming"

"Drive carefully"

"Im not a kid, amma"

She chuckled hearing his grumpy tone and disconnected the call.

He checked and saw his mom's message.

After getting into the car, his eyes darted around not wanting to miss someone's presence.

Failing in his attempt, he thought to go. That was when he saw the security approaching from another side.

"Excuse me sir, may i help you ?"

"Huh..uh...Did you see Ms ..Jwala anytime before ?" His jaw muscles clenched in nervousness while he asked this.

"Yes sir" She went an hour ago.

"Ohhh...okay thank you"

He frowned and drove to his home. He mood was totally upset because of all the recent happenings. His mind was also not at peace.

Vihaan tried switched on the music player and listen to some songs while heading home.
_____________________________________________

Vihaan parked the car and walked towards the portico. The door was already open. Strange. Usually his mother won't open the door as he has asked her to keep it locked.

His frown deepened and ears concentrated on a sweet melody that filled his ears as he tried to step in his home.

"Kannodu Kanbadhellam Thalaiva Kangaluku Chonthamillai Kangaluku Chonthamillai...."

( Whatever we see doesn’t belong to our eyes! )

"Kannodu Maniyanai Athanal Kannai Vittu Pirivathillai Nee Ennai Vittu Pirivathillai..."

(Since you’ve become a pupil of my eyes…....)

Unknowingly a small smile started to etch on his face lessening the frown. Like the pied piper of Hamelin, the pleasant satisfying voice kept dragging him towards the big living room.

His pupils widened seeing the owner of the voice and it was none other than Jwala...

Somehow it relaxed the tension in his jaw muscles and the upset face was transformed to a sweet smiling face enhancing his handsome features. The lightly tousled hair which he didnt bothered to keep it tidy.

As he continued listening, his eyes shifted swiftly seeing the footsteps that went in sync with the music. His mother was dancing gracefully to the music, he felt goosebumps with each passing minute. Seems like that had failed to notice his presence and he didnt want to make them know as he wanted to seize the moment and revel in the good feel. It had been eons since he saw his mother dancing. He silently thanked Jwala in his heart for making this moment possible as he leaned to the wall cross armed.

Vihaan understood the lyrics even though it was a tamil song. He had been in Madras during his college days as we all know.

As he kept listening, he felt that every single word was giving him magical vibes and this was more than enough to him for today.

"Iravum Pagalum Vanthalum Nal Enbathu Ondrallo"
(Even though there’s day & night, the day is one…)

"Kalgal Irandu Kondalum Payanam Enbathu Ondrallo"
(Even though, we’ve 2 legs journey is one....)

"Idhayam Irandu Endralum Kadhal Enbathu Ondrallo... "
(Even though, we’ve two hearts love is one….... )

The high pitches and some low notes were just perfect. He kept appreciating both his mom and Jwala in his mind. Vihaan was someone who enjoyed arts and he had an artistic mind. He had attended few musical concerts. Also have encouraged his classmates who loved music and dance. Back in college days, he too was a small singer with his guitar and whole college used to listen to him singing "nenjukkul peidhidhum maamazhai".

He came out of his thoughts when he heard his mom.

"Vihuuu...you here ?"

Good thing. I'm totally embarrassed. Where should i hide now. Jwala fidgeted the end of her saree pallu.

"Yeah i just came a few minutes ago"

His eyes darted to Jwala who kept her head low avoiding his magnetic gaze.

"Why are you standing there ?" She dragged him towards the couch and made him sit.

"I was enjoying the dance and musical concert. Didn't want to disturb you both. It was amazing"

He looked at Jwala while saying the last part.

"Really ? Did you see my dance ?"

"Yes of course amma. I saw your dance and it was perfect. My eyes are blessed today to see you dancing after so long"

"My legs have cramped. Seems like i have to use some medicinal oil"

"At your service my highness" He bowed dramatically making Ramya chuckle and head to the kitchen. Vihaan didn't fail to notice smile on her lips too.

"I..i will help ma'am" She tried to excuse as she felt a little bit awkward sitting with him after so long today.

"No problem. Amma will come soon. You are our guest. Sit here and feel at ease" He said calmly trying to make her feel relaxed.

"So...how is your practice going ?" Vihaan initiated the conversation.

"Going good. We are a little nervous too. It was ma'am's idea that she will dance and i will sing"

"Good idea. Actually amma is really an amazing dancer. She had stopped dancing long ago after my father's demise when i was young. I also have given space for her and respected her decisions not pestering her asking to dance. It was her passion too. Anyways thank you Jwala for making this possible"

"Ayyo..you dont need to thank me. I did ..nothing.." she smiled nervously which he noticed and smiled back softly.

"How long have you been singing ?" He tried to change the topic.

"I used to sing from my childhood days itself. Ive went to a music school for few years later had to stop it because i had to focus on my career"

She thought this answer was pretty good and tried to stop it there. But Vihaan was in no mood to stop today.

"Hmm. You should sing often. You're really talented and have an amazing voice"

Oh shucks ! Jwala felt her cheeks turning pink as he complemented her in the most manliest deep voice but it was kind of soothing too as if she felt safety and comfort.

"Th..thank you"

"You prefer tamil songs more i guess ...?"

"Nothing like that. I love songs of all languages. Music is a universal language right ? It can connect minds of different people from all over the world. Though i love tamil songs"

"Same" He adored the way she answered it.

"I prefer tamil and telugu more but"

"Do you sing too ?" Now it was Jwala's turn to get suprised.

"Used to sing during college days. We had a small band too" Vihaan gave charming smile.

"Wow. That's so cool"

"Hmm...later i got busy in career and got lost in touch with that"

"Same as me" She smiled getting more relaxed even though his magnetic eyes and chiselled jawline were hypnotising her.

"So...when is the college day ?"

"Next week..."

"Do every teachers have to perform something ?"

"Its not mandatory. But whoever wishes can perform"

"Hmm...am i invited for the concert ?"

"Sorry ?"

"Do i get an invitation to witness the concert i meant ?" He chuckled.

"Ohh.. yeah...sure.. why not ?!" She smiled, her cheeks blushing a little.

"Did i interrupt the conversation ?"

Ramya asked coming with a tray of teacups.

"No ma'am..." she stood up trying to help her taking the tray.

"You sit there Jwala. I will manage this right"

Ramya said giving a cup to her.

Vihaan washed his hands and face, later he too joined them.

"I have been telling her to have tea ever since we came here"

"Have everything. Feel free just like your home" Vihaan sensed her nervousness and tried to ease her.

Jwala smiled and had tea with snacks.

"Ma'am ..."

"No ma'am here"

Vihaan chuckled.

"Uh..amma... it's getting late. I should head back home"

"Dont worry. Vihaan will drop you. Is it okay vihu ? Are you busy ?"

"No amma. I'll drop her home"

They finished tea, Jwala took her bag and started to go bidding bye to Ramya.

Vihaan opened the door for her while she got in, surprised at his gesture.
_____________________________________________

"Jwala.. you can be casual around me .. I'm not that scary ok ?" He chuckled seeing her playing with fingers.

"Uh..i.." she smiled awkwardly.

"Umm..let me see...Tell me about your favourites...."

"Huh ?"

"What's your favourite colour ?"

"White and blue" She said abruptly making him smile.

"Nice. I love white too"

"What is your favourite food ?"

This time Jwala asked feeling excited forgetting about all the tension.

"I love food a lot. Umm..Chicken biriyani is my all time favourite"

"Ohh..hmm.."

"What's your favourite ?"

"I love vegetarian dishes mostly though i eat non veg too. I love Masala dosa and chole bhature too"

"Thats cool. When i was in Madras, i used to eat a lot of karapodi idli" Vihaan chirped jovially.

"Me too. I love it a lot"

He smiled seeing her chirpy like this..it was a new side of her to him. He understood that she was feeling comfortable around him.

They talked few more things about their favourites until the car stopped infront of her home.

"We have reached"

Vihaan said and that was when she noticed that they were already infront of her home. She didnt even realise.

"Oh no. Seems like i talked a lot" She facepalmed herself.

"No. Its alright. I enjoyed"

She smiled with pink cheeks. Getting a compliment from this man always made her in a situation like this and Vihaan was all glad that it could be done by him.

She got out of the car.

"Thank you Vi..thank you .."

"You can call me by my name"

"Umm...thank you Vihaan"

He closed his eyes slightly absorbing the sweetness of his name when she said it.

"Only thank you ?"

"Huh ?"

"Are you not inviting me to your home ?"

"Ayyo.. im really sorry. Come inside"

"I was kidding, Jwala"

"No really. Last time also you didnt come"

"Its okay Jwala. Maybe next time. That can be tomorrow"

"Promise ?"

"Promise" Vihaan gave his usual charming smile.

"You should go inside now"

"Uh..yes....umm...bye.. "

Why was i standing here ? Chi..what might he think ?.... she bit her tongue and turned away.

Vihaan chuckled shaking his head and started his car all smiles. The day ended sweetly. He thought. He liked that both of them were getting comfortable around each other and he didnt want to rush things between them. He wanted to know her better. To make her as his friend whom she can trust upon.....
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How did you like the conversation between them ?

Also how is the story progress ?

Did you like the bonding between Ramya and Jwala ?

What more do you expect to see in the upcoming chapters ?

Comment your views on this chapter.

Also thanks a lot AvantikaSaha1 for making such a beautiful cover for this story. I appreciate your talent. Keep it up dear. When i asked in the previous chapter, she told me without any hesitation about making the cover page and made it within maximum half an hour. Thanks a ton, buddy.

Yours,
Aiswarya2018.