The sun was gently streaming through the windows of the teachers' room, casting a warm, golden glow across the space. Priya sat at her desk, idly flipping through some papers, her thoughts drifting as she waited for her lunch to arrive. It was the day before her birthday, and while she hadn't made any special plans, the thought of another year passing did weigh on her mind.

Just then, Viraj entered the room, his usual bright smile lighting up his face as he approached her. "Are you done with lunch?" he asked casually, his voice warm with familiarity.

"Not yet," Priya replied, glancing up with a faint smile. "Still waiting for my food."

With a knowing grin, Viraj reached into his bag and pulled out a lunch box. "Mom sent you some Mysore Pak. Want to taste?"

Priya's eyes lit up with delight. "Aunty never forgets to send them! Give me, quick!" She eagerly accepted the box, the sweet aroma wafting up as she opened it. The sight of the familiar treat brought a rush of warmth to her heart, a small comfort in the middle of her busy day.

As they chatted and shared the sweets, the mood between them was light and easy, their conversation flowing with the ease of old friends. But then, Viraj's tone shifted slightly, becoming more serious as he gathered the courage to say what had been on his mind.

"Priya," he began cautiously, "can I say something?"

Priya looked up from the treat she was savoring, sensing the change in his demeanor. "Yes, tell me," she responded, her curiosity piqued.

Viraj hesitated for a moment, his usual confidence wavering slightly. "Can we go for dinner tomorrow?" he finally asked, his voice carrying a note of hopeful anticipation.

The question hung in the air between them, and Priya felt her heart skip a beat. She knew why he was asking—tomorrow is her birthday, and Viraj had always made a point of wanting to celebrate it with her. But memories of the previous year, when she had turned down his invitation and seen the disappointment in his eyes, made her pause. She didn't want to hurt him again, didn't want to see that same look of sadness cross his face.

Still, she hesitated, unsure of how to respond. The idea of dinner with Viraj felt... complicated. There were unspoken feelings, unresolved tensions, and yet, she knew she couldn't keep avoiding the issue forever. So, after a brief moment of internal struggle, she made up her mind.

"Yes," Priya finally said, her voice soft but steady. "Let's go."

Viraj's face lit up instantly, the change in his expression almost palpable. The cautious hope in his eyes bloomed into pure joy, and the smile that spread across his face was brighter than she had seen in a long time. "Really?" he asked, as if he couldn't quite believe it.

Priya nodded, a small smile playing on her lips as she tried to push aside her own uncertainties. "Yes, Viraj. Really."

For the rest of their conversation, there was an undercurrent of excitement in Viraj's words, a subtle but unmistakable happiness that filled the space between them. And though Priya couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty in her heart, she knew that, for now, she had made the right choice.

The following day, as Priya wrapped up her tutoring session with Arjun, he casually mentioned taking a break the next day. "Mam, let's take a break tomorrow," he said, trying to keep his tone light. "I have some other commitments with my friends."

Priya, a bit surprised, raised an eyebrow. "Plans with friends? Wow, all of a sudden?"

Arjun nodded, hiding a mischievous smile. "Yeah, we want to catch up before I leave for the U.S. next month."

"Then enjoy," Priya responded, though she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. She needed that break, especially with her birthday approaching and the dinner with Viraj looming. As Arjun left, Priya found herself more at ease, knowing she could focus on her own plans for the day. Little did she know, Arjun had something special in store for her, a surprise that would make her birthday even more memorable.

Late that night, Ram returned home, the weight of the day still heavy on his shoulders. Before retreating to his room, he felt a pull to check on Arjun. Quietly, he pushed open the door to his son's room, finding Arjun already fast asleep. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast a warm light over the room, and Ram couldn't help but smile as he walked over, gently brushing his hand through Arjun's hair.

As he turned to leave, his foot caught on something—a sketch pen lying carelessly on the floor. Bending down, he picked it up and instinctively opened the nearby drawer to put it away. But something inside caught his attention—a brightly colored greeting card tucked in the corner.

Curious, Ram carefully pulled it out and opened it. His eyes widened slightly as he read the words inside. It was a birthday card for Priya, lovingly crafted with thoughtful messages and wishes. The realization struck him—it was Priya's birthday.

A mix of emotions flickered across Ram's face as he quickly placed the card back where he found it, making sure everything was as it was before. He stood there for a moment, lost in thought, before silently leaving the room, closing the door behind him with a soft click. The night was quiet, but Ram's mind was anything but, the discovery of Priya's birthday lingering in his thoughts as he made his way to his own room.

As the clock approached midnight, the atmosphere in Priya's home was alive with a warm, intimate celebration. The living room was adorned with vibrant balloons and shimmering streamers, casting a festive glow around the room. Arohi had taken the lead in organizing the surprise, her face beaming with excitement and pride.

The cake, a beautifully decorated chocolate delight with shimmering candles, was set at the center of the table. The soft glow of the candles created a magical aura, their flames dancing gently. Priya, caught up in the whirlwind of her daughter's love and the surprise, could hardly contain her emotions.

"Happy Birthday, Mom!" Arohi shouted, her voice filled with pure love and enthusiasm. The room was filled with the sound of clapping and well-wishes. Priya felt a wave of gratitude and warmth wash over her, her heart swelling with emotion.

Priya's eyes glistened as she made a wish, her breath gently extinguishing the candles. She looked around at the faces of her family and friends, each one filled with genuine happiness and affection. The cake was cut, and the first slice was served, followed by laughter and the clinking of glasses.

The celebration continued with heartfelt conversations and joyful laughter. Arohi's eyes never left her mother, clearly thrilled by the happiness she had managed to bring. Priya, overwhelmed by the love and effort, felt a deep sense of appreciation for her daughter's unwavering dedication to making her day special.

The morning sun cast its warm light over the bustling city streets, illuminating the elegant shopfronts and busy sidewalks. Ram, usually so composed, found himself unusually distracted as he drove to work. The day's thoughts seemed to revolve around Priya, and he couldn't shake off the idea of getting her something special.

As he drove past a charming jewelry store with an enticing display of sparkling jewels, Ram's car came to an abrupt stop. His mind was racing with a single thought: he wanted to give Priya a gift. But the idea of approaching her directly with such a gesture seemed daunting. Priya's dignity and independence made him question if she would even accept it.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Ram's decision crystallized. He would purchase the gift and send it to her through Arjun. It was a more subtle approach, one that wouldn't force Priya into a situation she might find uncomfortable.

With newfound determination, Ram stepped out of his car and entered the jewelry store. The soft chime of the doorbell greeted him as he walked in, and he was immediately enveloped by the sparkling beauty of the collection.

A sales associate approached him, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Ram described his desire for a special gift for someone important to him. After examining several pieces, his gaze settled on a stunning pair of diamond earrings. They were elegant and timeless, their brilliance catching the light with every subtle movement. He could already envision Priya's reaction, her eyes lighting up at the sight of such a thoughtful gift.

The associate carefully wrapped the earrings in a delicate box, and Ram paid for them, his mind already planning the next steps. As he left the store, the small, ornate box in hand, he felt a sense of accomplishment. He would arrange for Arjun to deliver the gift, making sure it was done in a way that respected Priya's space and dignity.

Later, as Ram drove to the office, he imagined the moment Priya would receive the gift. He hoped it would bring a smile to her face, a token of appreciation and admiration from someone who had come to value her deeply. With the plan set in motion, Ram continued on his way, feeling a renewed sense of purpose.