The lazy afternoon sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm golden glow into the room where Preethi lay sideways on the bed, engrossed in a movie playing on the screen. The soft sounds of dialogue and music filled the air, creating a tranquil atmosphere that enveloped the room in a cocoon of comfort.

Meanwhile, Shubman leaned casually against the doorframe, his gaze fixed on Preethi as she lay sprawled out on the bed. He couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him as he watched her, her features illuminated by the soft light filtering in from the window.

"Enjoying the movie?" Shubman asked, his voice breaking the silence of the room as he spoke.Preethi glanced up from the screen, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips as she met Shubman's gaze. "Yeah, it's one of my favourites," she replied, her voice soft and filled with 

warmth.

Shubman nodded in understanding, a smile playing on his own lips as he watched her. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, gesturing towards the bed with a casual nod of his head.

Preethi's smile widened at the invitation, and she scooted over to make room for him on the bed. "Of course not," she replied, patting the space beside her invitingly.

With a grateful nod, Shubman crossed the room and settled himself beside Preethi on the bed, his gaze still fixed on the screen as the movie continued to play. The warmth of her presence beside him filled him with a sense of ease and contentment, and he couldn't help but feel 

grateful for this quiet moment they shared.

As they watched the movie together, a comfortable silence settled over them, broken only by the occasional sound of laughter or dialogue from the screen. In that moment, surrounded by the soft glow of the afternoon sunlight and the gentle hum of the movie playing in the background, 

Preethi and Shubman felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over them.

And as they sat together, lost in the magic of the moment, they knew that this was just the beginning of their journey together—a journey filled with countless moments like this one, each one more precious than the last.

As the movie reached its climax, Preethi turned to Shubman with a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. "Hey, Shubman, do you want to go to Marina Beach?" she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.

Shubman's gaze shifted from the screen to Preethi, a smile spreading across his face at her suggestion. "That sounds like a great idea," he replied, his tone eager. "I've heard so much about Marina Beach, but I've never been there."

Preethi's smile widened at his enthusiasm, and she nodded in agreement. "It's such a beautiful place, especially in the evening," she said, her voice tinged with excitement. "We could grab some snacks, take a walk along the shore, and watch the sunset."

Shubman's eyes lit up at the thought, the prospect of spending more time with Preethi filling him with a sense of anticipation. "That sounds perfect," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "I'd love to go with you."

With a shared smile, Preethi and Shubman made plans to head to Marina Beach, their excitement building with each passing moment. As they gathered their things and prepared to leave, they couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the adventure that awaited them—a chance to explore the beauty of the beach together and create memories that would last a lifetime.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

With a quick exchange of glances filled with anticipation and excitement, Preethi and Shubman gathered their essentials and made their way out of the house. The sun hung lazily in the sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets as they embarked on their journey to Marina Beach.

As they walked side by side, the gentle breeze tousled their hair and carried with it the salty scent of the sea. Preethi couldn't help but steal glances at Shubman, feeling a rush of warmth and happiness at his presence by her side.

"So, have you been to many beaches before?" Preethi asked, breaking the comfortable silence between them as they strolled along the sun-dappled streets.

Shubman shook his head, a playful smile playing on his lips. "Not really," he admitted. "I grew up in a landlocked area, so beaches were a rare treat for me."

Preethi's eyes widened in surprise. "Well, you're in for a treat today," she said with a grin. "Marina Beach is the longest urban beach in India, and it's absolutely stunning."

As they neared the beach, the sound of crashing waves grew louder, beckoning them closer. The vibrant energy of the bustling promenade filled the air, with vendors selling an array of snacks and trinkets, children building sandcastles, and couples strolling hand in hand.

Preethi led Shubman towards the shoreline, the golden sands stretching out before them as far as the eye could see. The rhythmic lapping of the waves against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack to their adventure, as they walked along the water's edge, their feet sinking into the soft sand with each step.

With every passing moment, Preethi and Shubman felt a sense of freedom and exhilaration wash over them, as they reveled in the beauty of the beach and the joy of each other's company. 

Preethi couldn't help but chuckle as she watched the small child darting towards her, a mischievous glint in his eyes. His tiny hand tugged eagerly at hers, his excitement palpable as he gestured towards the colourful packets of powdered paint clutched in his other hand.

"Come on, didi! Let me paint your face!" the child exclaimed, his words tumbling out in a rush of enthusiasm.

Preethi's heart melted at the child's infectious energy, and she couldn't resist his plea. With a playful smile, she knelt down to his level, offering her cheeks for his artistic endeavour.

"Alright, but make it quick!" Preethi replied, her laughter ringing out in the salty sea breeze.

With a gleeful giggle, the child dipped his fingers into the vibrant hues of red, carefully tracing two lines across Preethi's cheeks. His concentration was palpable as he worked, his brow furrowed in determination.

As he finished, the child stepped back to admire his handiwork, a proud grin spreading across his face. "There! Now you look beautiful, didi!" he declared, his eyes shining with satisfaction.

Preethi couldn't help but smile at the child's earnestness, feeling a warmth spread through her heart at his innocent gesture. "Thank you, little one," she said, reaching out to tousle his hair gently.

With a final wave, the child scampered off into the crowd, leaving Preethi with colorful streaks adorning her cheeks and a heart full of joy. As she turned to Shubman, her cheeks flushed with laughter, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected moments of happiness that life had to offer.

As they wandered through the lively streets near Marina Beach, the enticing aroma of street food filled the air, tempting their taste buds with promises of savoury delights. Preethi couldn't resist the allure of the colourful stalls lining the roadside, each one offering a tantalizing array of culinary treats.

"Let's grab some street food," Preethi suggested with a smile, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

Shubman nodded eagerly, his gaze lingering on Preethi as they approached a bustling food stall. His heart swelled with affection as he watched her, marvelling at her easy charm and infectious enthusiasm.

Together, they sampled an assortment of local delicacies—crispy vadas, spicy bhajis, and piping hot dosas, each bite bursting with flavour. As they savoured the delicious street food, their laughter mingled with the chatter of the crowd, creating a symphony of joyous sounds.

Throughout their meal, Shubman couldn't tear his eyes away from Preethi, captivated by her radiant smile and the way her eyes sparkled with delight. He found himself lost in her presence, savoring every moment they shared together.

As they finished their street food feast, Shubman's gaze softened with affection as he looked at Preethi. "You look even more beautiful when you're enjoying yourself," he confessed, his voice filled with sincerity.

Preethi's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue at his heartfelt words, her heart fluttering with warmth. "Thank you," she murmured, a shy smile gracing her lips.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

As they meandered through the bustling streets, the remnants of their street food feast still lingering on their taste buds, Shubman found himself entranced by Preethi's effortless grace and the way she seemed to light up every corner she touched.

Lost in her presence, Shubman's gaze lingered on her as they navigated the colorful chaos of the marketplace. He marveled at the way her hair caught the sunlight, casting a halo of golden warmth around her, and the way her laughter bubbled up like music in the air.

Preethi, sensing his gaze, turned to him with a playful smile. "What are you staring at?" she teased, her eyes dancing with mirth.

Caught off guard, Shubman felt a warmth spread through him, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Oh, nothing," he replied with a sheepish grin. "Just admiring the view."

Preethi's laughter rang out like a melody, filling the air with its infectious joy. "Smooth," she teased, nudging him playfully.

As they continued their leisurely stroll through the vibrant marketplace, Shubman couldn't shake the feeling of contentment that washed over him in Preethi's presence. Each moment spent by her side felt like a precious gift, and he cherished every laugh, every smile, every shared glance.

As the sun began to set over the bustling streets of Marina Beach, Preethi found herself lost in a lively conversation with her friend on the phone. She chuckled at a joke, her laughter mingling with the sounds of the bustling marketplace.

However, amidst her conversation, Preethi's gaze wandered to Shubman, who stood a few feet away, his easy smile captivating a crowd of admirers. A pang of jealousy tugged at Preethi's heart as she watched the swarm of girls flocking around him, eager for autographs and selfies.

For a moment, she felt a wave of insecurity wash over her. In a world where everyone seemed to want a piece of Shubman, where admirers clamored for his attention at every turn, she couldn't help but wonder if she was just another face in the crowd.

As Preethi continued her conversation, her thoughts drifted back to Shubman, and she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at her. Was she just another admirer vying for his attention? Was she just another name on his list of conquests?

The realization hit her like a punch to the gut: in a world where everyone wanted Shubman, she was just another player in the game—a face in the crowd, easily forgotten amidst the throngs of admirers.

Her heart heavy with the weight of her realization, Preethi tried to push aside her doubts and insecurities, focusing instead on the comforting voice of her friend on the other end of the line. 

But deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was fighting a losing battle—a battle against the countless admirers who vied for Shubman's attention, each one a reminder of her own insignificance in his world.

As the conversation drew to a close and Preethi bid her friend goodbye, she couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness wash over her. In a world where everyone wanted Shubman, where he was the center of attention wherever he went, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was just another face in the crowd—a face destined to be forgotten amidst the clamor of adoration that surrounded him.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Under the soft glow of streetlights, Shreyas and Shruthi found themselves walking hand in hand along a quiet, moonlit street. The air was filled with a gentle breeze, carrying with it the scent of jasmine and the distant murmur of the ocean. As they strolled, their laughter echoed through the tranquil night, their voices mingling with the rustle of leaves overhead.

Shruthi's heart danced with anticipation as she stole glances at Shreyas, his profile illuminated by the soft glow of the streetlamp. There was a warmth in his eyes, a tenderness in his smile, that made her pulse quicken with each step they took together.

As they reached a secluded alleyway bathed in the gentle glow of moonlight, Shreyas came to a stop, his gaze locking with Shruthi's. In that moment, time seemed to stand still, the world falling away around them as they stood on the threshold of something new and electrifying.

Shruthi's breath caught in her throat as Shreyas reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek with a feather-light touch. She felt a surge of electricity shoot through her veins at his touch, her heart pounding in her chest as she leaned into his caress.

"Shreyas..." she whispered, her voice barely above a breath as she gazed into his eyes, her heart laid bare before him.

Without a word, Shreyas closed the distance between them, his lips capturing hers in a tender, passionate kiss. Time seemed to stand still as their lips met, the world falling away around them as they lost themselves in the sweet embrace of each other's arms.

In that fleeting moment, nothing else mattered but the warmth of their bodies pressed together, the softness of their lips moving in perfect harmony. It was a kiss filled with promise, with longing, with the unspoken desire that had simmered between them for so long.

As they finally pulled apart, their breaths coming in ragged gasps, Shruthi found herself lost in the depths of Shreyas's eyes, her heart overflowing with emotion. In that moment, she knew that their love was a force to be reckoned with, a bond that would withstand the tests of time and distance.

With a tender smile, Shreyas brushed a lock of hair from Shruthi's face, his touch sending shivers down her spine. "I've been wanting to do that for so long," he confessed, his voice filled with raw emotion.

Shruthi's heart swelled with happiness at his words, her own feelings mirrored in the depths of her eyes. "Me too," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper as she leaned in to capture his lips in another sweet, lingering kiss.

In that moment, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight, Shreyas and Shruthi knew that they had found something truly magical—a love that would light up the darkest of nights and carry them through the trials and tribulations of life. And as they stood there, lost in each other's arms, they knew that their love was a flame that would burn bright for all eternity.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Preethi's heart skipped a beat as Shruthi's voice pierced through the bustling noise of the marketplace. Startled, she brought the phone closer to her ear, trying to make sense of her friend's words amidst the chaos.

"Wait, what?!" Preethi exclaimed, her voice rising above the din of the crowd.

On the other end of the line, Shruthi's voice crackled with excitement and a hint of mischief. "I know, I know! It was crazy!" she exclaimed, her words tumbling out in a rush.

Preethi's mind raced as she tried to process the unexpected revelation. Shruthi and Shreyas had kissed? It seemed almost too surreal to believe, and yet, there was an undeniable thrill coursing through her veins at the news.

"Tell me everything!" Preethi demanded, her curiosity piqued. "How did it happen? When did it happen?"

Shruthi's laughter bubbled over the line, a symphony of excitement and exhilaration. "Well, it was after we left the store," she began, her voice tinged with amusement. "We were walking back to the car, and then, out of nowhere, he just leaned in and kissed me!"

Preethi's eyes widened in astonishment as she listened to Shruthi's recounting of the unexpected moment. She could practically hear the excitement in her friend's voice, feel the rush of adrenaline that must have coursed through her veins at the unexpected gesture.

"And then what happened?" Preethi pressed, her heart pounding with anticipation.

Shruthi's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper, as if sharing a secret too precious to be uttered aloud. "Well, let's just say things got a little heated after that," she teased, a playful lilt in her tone.

Preethi couldn't help but laugh at Shruthi's coy insinuation, feeling a surge of happiness for her friend. Despite the chaos of the marketplace swirling around her, she couldn't shake the feeling of excitement that bubbled up within her at the news.

"Wow, Shruthi, that's amazing!" Preethi exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy. "I'm so happy for you!"

As the conversation continued, Preethi found herself swept up in the exhilaration of her friend's newfound romance, her heart brimming with happiness for Shruthi and Shreyas. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life, moments like these served as a reminder of the enduring power of love and connection—a power that transcended distance, time, and even the bustling noise of a crowded marketplace.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

As the waves lapped gently against the shore, Preethi and Shubman found themselves lost in the tranquility of the beach. The moon cast a shimmering path of silver across the water, painting the scene with an otherworldly glow.

Preethi's bare feet sank into the soft sand as she walked along the water's edge, her gaze fixed on the horizon where the sky met the sea. She felt a sense of serenity wash over her, the worries and uncertainties of the world melting away in the peaceful embrace of the night.

Beside her, Shubman walked in step, his presence a comforting anchor in the vast expanse of the beach. He reached out, his hand finding hers, and their fingers intertwined in a silent promise of companionship.

For a while, they walked in companionable silence, the only sound the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore. The cool breeze tousled their hair, carrying with it the salty scent of the ocean and the promise of endless possibilities.

As they wandered further down the beach, Shubman paused, his gaze drawn to a cluster of rocks jutting out into the water. "Come on," he said, his voice a gentle invitation. "Let's sit for a while."

Preethi nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips, and followed him to the rocks. They settled onto a smooth boulder, their shoulders brushing as they gazed out at the moonlit sea.

For a while, they simply sat in silence, lost in the beauty of the night. But as the minutes stretched on, Preethi felt a warmth spreading through her, a quiet sense of contentment settling over her like a blanket.

"It's so peaceful here," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shubman turned to her, his eyes reflecting the moon's gentle glow. "Yeah," he agreed, his voice soft with emotion. "It's like the whole world just fades away, and it's just you and me."

Preethi's heart fluttered at his words, a rush of warmth flooding through her. In that moment, she felt a connection with Shubman that transcended words—a bond forged in the quiet moments shared beneath the stars.

As they sat together on the rocks, the moonlight casting a soft halo around them, Preethi knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be. With Shubman by her side, she felt a sense of belonging that she had never known before—a sense of home in the vast expanse of the universe.

And as they sat together, lost in the beauty of the night, Preethi couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment—for the chance to share it with someone who made her heart sing, and for the promise of countless more moments like this to come.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Preethi's heart sank as she listened to Shubman's words, the weight of his doubt hanging heavy in the air. She turned to him, her eyes filled with concern, as she reached out to gently squeeze his hand.

"Shubman, don't say that," she said softly, her voice laced with sympathy. "You're an incredible player, and you've worked so hard to get where you are. You can't let a few bad matches shake your confidence."

Shubman sighed, his gaze fixed on the horizon as he wrestled with his inner turmoil. "I know, Preethi, but it's hard not to doubt myself sometimes," he admitted, his voice tinged with 

frustration. "The competition is fierce, and every match feels like a make-or-break moment."

Preethi nodded in understanding, her heart aching for the burden he carried. She knew firsthand the pressure that came with chasing dreams and striving for greatness, and she couldn't imagine how much harder it must be for Shubman, with the weight of an entire nation's expectations on his shoulders.

"I get it, Shubman," she said gently, her voice a soothing balm against his doubts. "But you can't let fear hold you back. You have to believe in yourself, in your abilities, and trust that everything will work out in the end."

Shubman turned to her, his eyes searching hers for reassurance. "Do you really think so?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Preethi nodded, her gaze unwavering as she met his eyes. "I do," she replied firmly. "You have a talent and a passion for the game that's undeniable, Shubman. And no matter what happens, you have to hold onto that belief."

As they sat together on the rocks, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore in the distance, Preethi felt a surge of determination coursing through her veins. She knew that Shubman had the potential to achieve greatness, to rise above the doubts and uncertainties that plagued him.

And as she looked into his eyes, she silently vowed to be his steadfast support, his unwavering cheerleader, every step of the way. Together, they would weather the storms that lay ahead, facing whatever challenges came their way with strength, courage, and unwavering faith in each other.

As the weight of their conversation hung in the air, Shubman felt a deep sense of gratitude for Preethi's unwavering support. He rested his forehead against hers, seeking solace in the warmth of her presence.

"Thank you, Preethi," he whispered, his voice barely above a breath. "For believing in me, even when I struggle to believe in myself."

Preethi smiled softly, her heart swelling with affection for the man beside her. "Always, Shubman," she replied, her voice filled with sincerity. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

For a moment, they lingered in the quiet embrace, the soft sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to their shared moment of intimacy. Shubman felt a rush of emotion welling up inside him, a potent mix of gratitude, admiration, and something more.

As he hesitated, unsure of whether to act on the swirling emotions in his heart, he found himself drawn irresistibly towards Preethi's lips. With a tender resolve, he leaned in, his movements slow and deliberate as he closed the distance between them.

Their lips met in a gentle kiss, a tender exchange of warmth and affection that sent a jolt of electricity coursing through Shubman's veins. In that fleeting moment, the world fell away around them, leaving only the sweet sensation of their lips moving together in perfect harmony.

As they pulled apart, their eyes met in a silent exchange of understanding. Shubman felt a weight lifting from his shoulders, replaced by a newfound sense of peace and clarity. In Preethi's arms, he had found a sanctuary, a refuge from the doubts and uncertainties that plagued him.

"Thank you," he murmured, his voice filled with emotion. "For being my rock, my guiding light in the darkness."

Preethi smiled, her eyes sparkling with love and affection. "Anytime, Shubman," she replied, her voice filled with warmth. "I'll always be here for you, through thick and thin."

And as they sat together on the rocks, the moon casting a soft glow over the tranquil scene, Shubman knew that he had found something truly special in Preethi—a love that transcended words, a bond that would withstand the tests of time. 

And as they basked in the warmth of each other's embrace, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the beautiful journey that lay ahead, filled with endless possibilities and the promise of a love that would last a lifetime.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

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Preethi ❌ Pretty woman✔️

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the eighth chapter is hereee

OUR BABIES KISSED [ BOTH ]

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- yours truly, supraja