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Naan continuous'aah update kuduthirukken. Votes and comments naraya expect panlaamaa?🌝

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴🏻‍♀️💜🦋

******

♡♡

Aayush

Once I boarded the train, about an hour later, I dialed her number.

"Hello"

I was taken aback by the husky tone in her voice.

"Oi. Enna husky voice'le pesura?"

(Oi. Why are you speaking in a husky voice?)

"Aiyo. Ellaarum veliya dha irukkaa. Yedhukku kooptel?"

(Aiyo. Everyone's outside. Why did you call?)

"Illa.. unta ellaam explain pandradhukkaaga 5 hours travel panni Srirangam vandhen. Ippo thirumba ooty'ku poitu itukken. Aana madam anga function'le semma jolly aah irukkinga pola?"

(No... just to explain everything to you, I traveled 5 hours and came to Srirangam. Now I'm heading back to Ooty. But madam, looks like you're having a blast at the function?)

I leaned back on my seat, a smile tugging at my lips as I crossed my arm beneath my chest.

"Aiyo naan nenachutte dha irundhen ungala. Train yereerpe'laa illayaa'nu. Aana call panna mudiyala. Seri sollungo, train yereete'laa? Seat kedachadhaa?"

(I was just thinking about you, wondering whether you boarded the train or not. But I couldn't call. So tell me, did you get on the train? Did you get a seat?)

She whined, piling up her questions one after another.

"Ticket book panni dhane ma poren?"

(I had already booked the ticket right?)

"Ohh appadiyaa seri seri"

She hurried through her words, and I realized she was speaking to me on the phone like a thief in her own house. I chuckled teasingly, mimicking her cute,

"Seri seri"

She also chuckled, and after a minute of silence filled with our breaths, I could hear the train sounds on my side and the chaotic noises of the function on hers.

"Inga andha ponnu paavam, rendu mani neramaa nikka vachu koldraa"

(Here, I feel sorry for this girl. They're literally making her stand for almost two hours)

She sounded worried and sympathetic, yet there was a hint of happiness in her tone.

"Aahaan. Apdi enna pandraa...nga"

(Aaahn, what are they doing to her?)

I'm starting to pick up her accent now.

Sighs.

"Maama'laa suthi utkaandhirukkaa.. seeru koduthu aasirvaadham panneetu irukkaa"

(She was surrounded by her uncles, and they were blessing her one by one, giving her some offerings)

She provided her live commentary.

"Seer'aah?"

(Offferings?)

"Aama apdidha pannuvaa. Ungalukku theriyaadhaa?"

(Yeah, they do that. Don't you know?)

"Enakku epdi ma theriyum?"

(How would I know, ma?)

"Oh, aama'le. Seri naan ungalukku soldren"

(Oh, alright, I will tell you)

"Adhellaa venaa vidu"

(No. No need)

How will I hear all that from her?

"Yen? Naan vera onnum sollala. Function pathi mattum soldren. Ippove therinju vachukardhu nalladhu dhane?"

(Why? I'm not going to tell you anything else. I'm only going to talk about the function. Isn't it better to know all of this now itself?)

She asked seriously, and I rubbed my beard, responding teasingly,

"Puberty function pathilaa naan yen madam therinjukanu?"

(Why should I need to know about a puberty function, madam?)

"Aama pinna? Future'le ungalukku oru ponnu porandhaa enna pannuvinga? munnaadiye therinju vachirukka venaamaa?"

(Is that so? If a girl is born to you in the future, what will you do? Shouldn't you be aware of all this in advance?)

I bit the inside of my cheeks and replied,

"Mmm.. ponnu dha porakkum'nu solla mudiyaadhu. Paiyanaa kooda Irukkalaam"

(Hmm... we can't say that a girl will be born. It could also be a boy)

"Illa first ponnu. Apro venaa paiyan"

(No, first a girl. Then maybe a boy)

She answered, and I ran my fingers through my hair while asking,

"Venaa paiyanaa? Appo paiyan'naa venaamaa?"

(Maybe a boy? Don't want a boy then?)

I asked with an offended tone.

"Naan yeppo venaa'nu sonnen? Ponnu'ku priority adhigam'nu dha solla vandhen. Ungalukku paiyan priority'oh?"

(When did I say I don't want? I just said that a girl has a higher priority. Do you have a boy as a priority?)

"Apdilaa illaye. Yendha kozhandhaiyaa irundhaa enna? Ellaame ennodadhu dhane?"

(Nothing like that. What does gender matter? Aren't they all mine?)

I said and felt a curious gaze from my left. I turned to see the old lady in her glasses giving me an intense look. I blinked, knitting my brows at her and turned away toward the window, hearing,

"Aahaan. Appo ungalukkum first ponnu dha. Nekkum ponnu dha"

(Aha. So for you too, it's a girl first. For me too, it's a girl)

This girl... I scratched my left eyebrow with my index finger and said,

"Hmm.. unga viruppa padiye pon kozhandha porakka vaazhthukkal, madam"

(Hmm... according to your preference, I wish for you to have a girl child, madam)

"Same to you, professor "

She said and chuckled. I smiled softly and let out a light laugh as I stretched my legs before the empty seat, enjoying our conversation.

When I turned to see the old lady still watching me, I quickly averted my gaze and murmured,

"Enna kurukuru'nu paakuraanga?"

(Why is she looking at me like this?)

"Aaru?"

(Who?)

I heard Seetha.

"Nee innum pogala?"

(Are you still here?)

"Illa purila?"

(I didn't get you)

Her voice came out intimidatingly. I shut my eyes, cursed myself under my breath, and said,

"Illa ma, unakku naraya vaela irukkume, adhaa innum pogalayaa'nu kaetten"

(No, ma, you have a lot of work to do, so I'm asking why you haven't left yet)

"Mmm.. ponum.. ap..achacho. Naan apro koopudren. Maami enna thaedeetu irukka pola irukku"

(Mmm... yes, I have to go. Bu.. achacho, I'll call you later... it seems my aunt is looking for me)

"Sering. Bye"

(Okay)

"Bye bye"

She said and ended the call. I smiled, pocketed my phone, and turned to see an old woman sitting next to an old man.

She was pressing his legs, placing them on her lap, while he tried to keep his legs down to avoid making her bear his weight, as if his bony legs would hurt her. But, he fell silent, leaning back in his seat with a smile as she spoke to him sternly. Despite her firmness, she continued to press his legs with a smile and genuine care.

I admired them and smiled, realizing that not every love is broken and hurtful like my mother's. There's still true love in this world, waiting for those the universe blesses with the right soul.

After another two hours, I woke from my sleep to a tap on my shoulder and turned to see the same old woman smiling at me.

"Eludhuttiyaa, pa? Saapadriyaa? Amma ooti vidattumaa?"

(Have you woken up, dear? Will you eat? Should amma feed you?)

My breath caught in my throat at her words, and I watched as she stretched her hand toward me, holding a bit of curd rice.

I stared at her, and the word 'amma' made me swallow the lump in my throat and blink back the tears threatening to fall. But before I could respond, I heard,

"Sujatha"

I lifted my face to see the same old man watching me with a nervous smile.

"Manichirunga, thambi. Edhum pretchana pannalaye?"

(Forgive me, dear. She didn't cause any trouble, did she?)

I gulped, shook my head and after clearing my throat, I said,

"Il..illa. Adhellaa.."

(N..no... nothing..)

"Ennanga paarunga namma Badri'nga"

(Dear, see, our Badri..)

The old woman pointed at me, referring to me as Badri, with a smile. He took hold of her shoulders and helped her to stand on her feet, saying,

"Avan namma Badri illa Suja, ma"

(He is not our Badri, Suja)

I heard him say to her, but she shook her head and replied,

"Illa'nga paaka avana polave irundhaan"

(No, dear. He looks exactly like him)

"Mmm.. nee vaa utkaaru"

(Mmm.. you come and sit here)

He helped her sit back in her seat and fed her some food while she continued to gaze at me. I returned her look with a warm smile.

After assisting her in swallowing her tablets, he ensured she was comfortable and safe, placing a blanket over her as she lay down in the seat before making his way toward me.

"Hi. I'm Suresh"

He stretched his hand towards me. I intended to stand up to greet him, but he placed his hand on my shoulder, stopping me.

"Paravala paravala, utkaarunga"

(It's okay, it's okay. Sit)

I sat back in my seat while he took the empty seat in front of me, and I introduced myself,

"Aayush Kumar"

"Aayush Kumar"

He repeated with a smile, nodding his head as he turned to look at the woman. I followed his gaze and heard,

"En wife, Sujatha. Alzheimer's patient'laa illa"

(My wife, Sujatha. She's not an Alzheimer's patient.)

I saw him take a deep breath before turning toward me, saying,

"She is missing her son."

I gave him a puzzled look and asked,

"Is he...?"

"Apdi edhaadhu irundhaa kooda rendu varshathula seri aayiduvaale, thambi"

(Even if something like that had happened, she might be cured in two years, dear.)

I squinted my eyes.

"Oru anju varsham munnaadi, loan katta kaasu illaama vandhu iva kitta aludhaan. Yethanayo dhadava naan solla muyarchi pannen, aana ava kekkala, enga veeta adamaanam vachu avanukku kaasu vaangi kuduthaa.. (chuckles)..paiyan mela avlo paasam onnum panna mudiyaadhu. Adhey maasam kaasu vandhadhum idhu en veedu veliya ponga nu sonnaan. He betrayed his own parents by listening to his wife, the girl we had arranged for him"

(About five years ago, he came to us asking for money to pay off his loan. I tried to warn her, but she gave him the money, using our house papers. Amma's love can't help in situations like this. (chuckles) Then, that same month, he came back and demanded we leave the house, claiming it was now his. He betrayed his own parents by listening to his wife, the girl we had arranged for him)

He said everything with a smile, while I felt disgusted. What kind of creatures are that man and his wife?

"Avlo paasam vachirundhaa, orey paiyan'naala motha paasamum avanukku dha kuduthaa.. aana avan adha orey naal'le sukkunoor'aaki.. ivala indha nelamaiku kondu vandhu vittutaan"

(As he was our only son, she gave him all her love and affection. But he discarded it all in just one day, leaving her like this.)

He gazed at his wife and sighed, the weight of his memories evident in his eyes.

"Rendu varshamaa ipdidha dha pa irukkaa.. yaara paathaalum Badri Badri nu avan peraye solleetu iruppaa. Avala innum paathukura naan inga ava pakkathulaye irundhaalum avalukku ava magan mela dha adhiga paasam. Enna pandradhu amma le? Paasam illaama epdi irukkum? Uyira kudukka kooda thayanga maataanga"

(For two years, it's been like this. No matter who she sees, she always calls them Badri. Even if I'm right here next to her, she has more love for him than for me. What can we do? How can there be life without Amma's love? They wouldn't hesitate to give their lives for them)

I gulped and tried hard to control myself.

"Inga dha.. coimbatore'le oru mudhiyor illam'le thangeerko, pa. Rendu naal munnaadi dhideeru mayangi vilundhuttaa.. naethu dha hospital kooptu ponen. Onnum pretchana illa BP dha.. adhaa konjam apdiye engayaadhu kooptu poitu mind change panlaa'nu paathen.. enga.. innum apdiye dha irukkaa"

(Here, in Coimbatore, at an old age home, we are staying. Two days ago, she fainted and fell down. I took her to the hospital yesterday. There was nothing wrong; it was just her BP. I thought maybe she could be taken somewhere else to change her mindset... but it's still the same.)

He smiled at me, averting his gaze from his wife.

"Aanaa ava enna dha avlo kashta pattaalum, enkitta adha kaamchukka maataa. Avalukku theriyum epdilaa ava behave pandraa'nu.. aana naan onnume solla maaten. Avalum yen ipdi amaidhiyaa enna salichuttu irukkinga'nu kaettu kathavum maataa.. yen theriyumaa? Iva dha enakku venum'nu sanda potu kalyanam panna ponnu.. ava avaloda paiyana nenachu avalukku enna aanaalum avala paathukka naan eppavum iruppen'nu avalukku theriyum.. andha oru nambikka enakku avakitta irundhu podhum.. evlo venaalum thaangalaam"

(But no matter how much she suffers, she won't show it to me. She knew how she is behaving around, yet she never asks how I'm tolerating her, nor do I.... Do you know why? It's because she's the woman I married after a lot of fights. She understands that no matter what happens to her, thinking about her son, I will always be there for her. And that belief is enough for me.... I can bear anything for her)

To my surprise, the happy faces of my mother and her husband from my childhood flashed before my eyes, just when he finished, making me gulp.

But when he squeezed my shoulder and asked what was wrong, I jerked back and smiled at him. I shook my head just as we heard,

"Suresh"

He went at the sound of his wife's voice, and I watched him help her sit up straight before heading toward the restroom area.

I inhaled deeply, leaning my head back against the seat and closing my eyes, zoning out to relax before trying to come up with a solution for my racing heart.

That afternoon, I arrived in Ooty and saw my mother's husband and Elango sitting on the couch, deep in conversation. I glanced at them and went straight to my room without saying a word, needing some rest before starting my online tutoring classes.

Later that night, I settled down under my mother's photo and stared at the letters scattered on the floor. I picked one up, ready to open it, but restrained myself and closed it instead.

I placed everything back into the black backpack, zipped it up, and tucked it under the bed.

Checking the clock, I noted it was 10 PM. With a sigh, I moved downstairs, looking for him in the living room, but he was nowhere to be found.

I shrugged and headed inside the kitchen to prepare dosa and chutney for dinner. While I was grinding the chutney in the mixer, I switched it off to taste it but paused when I heard a throat clearing sound, followed by,

"Aayush"

I caught a glimpse of him from the corner of my eye.

"Un phone adichutte irundhadhu.. naan attend pannaama vandhu kuduthurlaa nu dha nenachen.. aana kaithavari phone attend panneeten.. seri unkitta vandhu kudukalaa nu varadhukulla anga sathamaa kettadhu.. naan wait pannunga nu soldradhukulla.. avanga unkitta dha pesanum nu sonnaanga.."

(Your phone was ringing... I thought I could just hand it over without answering. But I ended up picking up the call because someone was shouting on the other end. When I tried to ask them to wait, they insisted that they needed to speak with you.)

I frowned at his enthusiastic explanation and turned to face him. He smiled at me, his hand stretched, which only deepened my frown. I absentmindedly licked the chutney off my index finger, but I choked as the spiciness went down the wrong pipe when I heard him say,

"En marumaga unkitta pesanumaam, pa. Indhaa.."

(My daughter-in-law would like to speak with you, it seems. Here..)

I stared at him, my eyes wide with shock.

"Naan sollala. Un wife dha sonnaanga...nee venaa kaelu"

(I didn't say that. It was your wife who mentioned it... do you want to hear?)

Before I could stop him, he pressed the speaker button.

"Pesu, ma. Un husband kaettutu dha irukkaaru"

(Go ahead and speak, dear. Your husband is listening.)

He spoke into the phone, and I heard a voice on the other end, saying,

"Thousand times sorry, professor"

I glanced at him, noticing the smirk on his face. Swiftly, I moved closer, snatched my phone from his hand, and declined the call before heading back into the kitchen. I hurriedly placed the chutney and dosas onto a plate for myself and walked past him as he stood at the kitchen doorway, seeing me.

Ivalaa..

(This girl..)

As I made my way to the balcony of my room, I called her back and heard,

"Sorry one, sorry two, sorry three, sorry number four, sorry number five, sorry number six, sorry number seven, sor.."

"Enna panneetu irukka?"

(What are you doing?)

I asked, genuinely confused and concerned, hearing her panting along with her number of apologies.

"Situps. Sorry number eight.."

"Did I ask you to do that?"

"Mhm. But I made a big mistake"

She whined, and I nudged the bean bag with my leg, settling down on it as I asked,

"Seri adhukku?"

(So what?)

"Punishment. Naane koduthukuren.."

(Punishment. I'm giving it to myself)

Before I could stop her,

"Akka enna pandra?"

(Sister, what are you doing?)

I heard a little girl's voice, and I abruptly halted when I heard Seetha saying,

"Naan ennamo pandren. Nee yen inga vandha? veliya po.."

(I'll do whatever I want. Why are you here? Just get out..)

"Yen? neenga yen ivlo periya breath pandringa?"

(Why? Why are you taking such big breaths?)

Big breaths !?

"Yeiii podi veliya. kotteerven po.."

(Hey, get out. girl. I'll knock you out...)

I was taken aback by her harsh words.

Enna paapa peepa maadhiri pesudhu?

(What is she? Talking like a rude girl?)

"Nee podi loosu"

(You go girl.. crazyhead)

"Ading.. podi duck uh.."

"Nee peh"

(You go..)

"Vandhuttaa aalum size'uhm paaru"

(God... just look at her and her size)

She muttered angrily and then,

"Hello"

I snapped out of my shock at her frustrated yell, quickly gulping down a piece of dosa before asking in a serious tone,

"Ippo yaaru pesunadhu?"

(Who spoke just now?)

"Adhu oru pei'uh. En chithi ponnu.. seriyaana vaalu.. mariyaadh.."

(That's just a ghost girl. My aunt's daughter... she doesn't show me any res..)

"Illa illa.. unnoda chithi ponnu, andha kutty ponna kekkala.. un appa oda periya paapa've ketten"

(No, no... I didn't ask about your aunt's little daughter. I was referring to your father's big kid)

"Haan?"

"Paavi, nee unmaiyaave srirangam agragaara kozhandha dhaanaa? Illa enkitta udhaar vidriyaa?"

(Sinner, are you really a child from Srirangam? Or are you just lying to me like that?)

I asked genuinely shocked becaus,

Enkitta bold'aah pesuvaa'nu theriyum, aana ivanga family layum ivlo periya rowdy'nu theriyaama pochu..

(I know she'll always speak boldly to me, but little did I realize that she's also such a rowdy in her family)

"Chey, yen ipdi pesurel? Thanni potte'laa?"

(Hey, why are you talking like this? Did you drink?)

I gasped.

"Yaaru naanaa neeyaa? Unmaiya sollu rendu peg pota dhane?"

(Who? Me or you? Just tell the truth, didn't you drink two pegs?)

I teased her, suppressing my laugh.

"Aiyooo, idhellaa en perumaal kaettaa enna enna'nu nenappaa? abachaaramaa pesaadhel"

(Oh no, what would my Perumal think of all this? Don't speak so ill!)

She whined, and I couldn't help but chuckle before asking,

"Yeii nadikaadha nee.. sollu sondha ooru kaasimedu dhane?"

(Hey, don't act like... Just tell me, isn't your hometown Kaasimedu?)

"Setha adangure'laa? ippodha saapdave seire'laa? 11 manikku yevanaadhu dinner saapduvaanaa?"

(Just stay quiet. Are you seriously eating at this hour? Who even has dinner at this time?)

I knitted my brows, and said,

"Naan saapduven"

(I will)

"Ahn, nannaa saapdungo"

(Ahn, eat well)

"Enakku innoru oru doubt'uh.. andha ponnu enna ivlo periya breath pandringa'nu kekudhu? anegamaa yen situps podringa'nu dhane kekkanu?"

(I have another doubt... didn't that girl ask why you're taking deep breaths? She should be asking why you're doing sit-ups instead, right?)

"Adhu..dha..bha.."

She stammered, I smirked, sensing the truth behind her hesitation and asked,

"Dha..bha..dha.. adha naan soldren.. nee situps podren'nu enkitta poi solleetu summa breath mattum panni enna yemaatheetu irundhirukka correct'aah?"

(What? Should I say that? You just took a deep breath and pretended to be doing sit-ups in front of me, right?)

"Seethaaa kuttyyyy.."

"Aahnnn. Idho varen, maami. Maami koopadraa naan poren. neenga saapdungo. bye.. I love youuu.. ummaahhhhhhhhhhh"

(Ahh, I'm coming, aunty! I'm heading out now. You enjoy your meal. Bye... I love youuu... muahhhhhhhhhhh!)

With that, she declined the call, making me choke on my chutney for the second time, and I cursed under my breath.

"Wh..what the fuck!"

Sipping water to control my coughing, I finished my dinner with a amused smile in my lips, descended the stairs, and noticed the kitchen was neat and clean.

I washed the plate silently, avoiding the fuss I usually made in the past, then slipped into my room and fell asleep quickly, ready to wake up the next day for college.

The next two days in Ooty passed with a sudden sense of loneliness. I didn't feel her presence beside me. Elango kept asking why I seemed so zoned out, but I couldn't answer him-or myself.

Even though the person who had become so close to my heart called me every night, we could rarely manage more than a word or two. She often said she was sleeping with her cousins and couldn't talk normally.

I couldn't help but resent her cousins, who seemed to occupy her time and space, making me feel distant from her.

The days of memories I had with her-kissing her cheeks, playing with her fingers, gripping her little hands in mine, hugging her tightly to my chest-kept nagging at me. The loneliness grew, even more intensely.

It feels like,

Yendha oru yedhir paarpum illaama vandha oru uyir, sattu'nu nammala vittu vilagi ponaa epdi irukkum?

(How would it feel when a life that came into ours with no expectations suddenly slips away from us?)

I groaned, raking my fingers through my hair, and left the kitchen, turning off the stove. I started heading towards the terrace but stopped midway. Instead, I turned towards my room as the memories of our late-night talks and the way we used to cuddle our hands there flooded my mind.

"Enna elavu feelings da idhu?"

(What kind of feelings are these?)

I cursed under my breath as the realization hit me-I was fa..

My gaze drifted to the balcony door, bringing back memories of her soft cheeks brushing against my lips. Sighing, I stopped, stood before the mirror, my left hand resting on my hip while my right rubbed the back of my head in frustration. These emotions, bubbling up uncontrollably, left me feeling more confused than ever.

But, one thing was clear though-I was doing exactly what I'd vowed I'd never do.

I stared at my own reflection in the mirror, glaring at myself with disapproval.

"Rendu naal kooda irukka mudila adhukulla athana veera vasanam. Thu.."

(Couldn't even last two days, and there I was, full of bold statements already)

After tossing off my sweatshirt, I headed for a warm shower, trying to shake off the cold that had settled into my bones. I felt the hot water wash over me, soothing the chill but not the thoughts running wild in my head.

As soon as I laid down on the bed, sinking into the pillow, my phone buzzed. Her name flashed on the screen,

"Seetha 🧞‍♀️"

My finger hovered over the answer button, but I couldn't bring myself to pick up. Instead, I flipped my phone to silent mode, buried my face deeper into the pillow, and tried to force myself into sleep, chanting in my head,

Don't get attached. Don't think about her. Don't miss her.

But it was pointless.

I found myself on the balcony, letting the rain wash over my face as I leaned back against the railing, my head tilted backwards, eyes closed. The thoughts of her, and my amma, swirling through me like the storm in the sky. I stayed there, drenched and lost in thought for what felt like hours, until the night faded.

The next morning, I woke up late, realizing my phone was still on silent mode. I rushed to the college, only to face Elango's sarcastic up-and-down look.

But, I brushed it off, pretending everything was normal, and buried myself in my work, even though the rain-soaked thoughts from the night before lingered.

I quickly glanced through the trendings in the Python market, scrolling the mouse and flicking the buttons, taking careful notes on the key points, but eventually, I felt bored.

Leaning back in my chair, I grabbed my phone, turned off silent mode, and switched on the internet connection.

Within seconds, a flood of notifications and messages appeared on my screen, confusing me.

Seetha 🧞‍♀️

"Hello"

"HELLOOOOOO"

"Pesaamayae thoongeetinga'le?😏"

(Haven't you slept without talking?)

"Ghost dreams 👻"

And as I brought the phone speaker closer to my ear, I heard a voice message,

"Thookam varla, pa. Neenga mattum nannaa thoongungo"

(I can't sleep. You alone sleep well)

I chuckled at her whiny whisper and glanced at the other messages below, which read,

"I love you so much"

"I miss you so much"

"I hate you so so muchhhhhhhhhhhhhh"

I chuckled, swaying in my rolling chair from left to right, balancing my elbows on the armrest while holding my phone in both hands.

However, I cleared my throat and straightened up, casually placing the mobile on the table when I noticed someone sneaking the look from the doorway of my cabin.

"Nadikaadha da"

(Don't act, man)

I shut my eyes and cursed myself, realizing that it was the one person I least wanted to catch me.

Elango walked in, placing his palm on the table as he fixed his gaze on me. I lifted my head, looked at him with a feigned look of confusion and asked,

"Ennaachu da?"

(What happened, dude?)

"Enakkkaa illa enakkaa?"

(Me? you are asking?)

He began shouting while pointing at himself, which felt so funny, but I suppressed my laughter and asked,

"Deii Deii yen da kathura?"

(Dude, dude, why are you shouting now?)

"Yaaru? naan kathuranaa?"

(Who? am I shouting?)

I finally let out a chuckle I couldn't hold back and said,

"Pinna enna unga aayaa'vaa? chi, moodeetu utkaaru"

(Then who? Your grandma? Just sit and keep your mouth shut)

"Aahn... Unakkenna pa... neeye kadhal'le thathalikira meenu maadhiri irukka. Unakku en aayaa kevalamaa dha irukkum"

(Aah... What kind of a man are you? You're already acting like a fish trapped in the net of love. You must really have a low thing for my grandma)

He pulled out a chair and sat down next to me, giving me a sarcastic look. I let out a sigh.

"Yen da deii.. Yedha kondu vandhu yedhoda saekura mental. Naan poi unga aaya've apdi nenapanaa da?"

(What's wrong with you, dude? What are you bringing here, acting all mentally unstable? Will I really thinking about your grandma like that?)

"Ohh appo naan kadhal'nu sonnadhu unakku kekala. Aana aaya mattum kekudho?"

(Oh, so when I said love, you didn't hear it. But you can only hear about grandma?)

"Chey. Apdilaa illa macha. Summa.. "

(Chey, nothing like that, macha. Simply...)

I dragged the word, leaving it hanging, hoping he wouldn't probe further. But he pressed on, asking,

"Summa?"

(Simply?)

"Macha, unakke theriyum'le naan adhukellaa set aaga maaten'nu?"

(Dude, you know I won't settle for something like that, right?)

"Yedhukellaa?"

(What is that like 'that'?)

"Adhaa da.. nee sonniye yedhulayo maateetu thathalikira meenu maadhiri irukken nu?"

(That's... You said I'm acting like a fish caught in something, didn't you?)

"Ohh. Deii Iyer aathu ambi pola nadikaadha da. Nee yaaru enna vela paakura nu enakku nalla theriyudhu. Appattamaa theriyudhu. Moodeetu unmaiya sollu"

(Oh, come on! Don't pretend to be innocent. I know exactly what you're doing. Just spill the whole truth!)

"Enna unma macha?"

(Which truth, dude?)

"Naan edhaadhu kevalamaa kekuradhukulla solleeru da"

(Just spill the truth before I say something harsh)

I sighed and asked seriously,

"Unma dhane macha venu unakku?"

(Do you really want the truth, dude?)

"Aamaa.."

(Yes..)

He raised an eyebrow at me. I hummed in response, nodded my head, then shut down the system and pushed my chair back before looking back at him and said,

"Onnume illa da"

(Nothing is like that, dude)

He groaned, and I smiled, maintaining an innocent expression as he glared at me.

"Pacha kozhandha maadhiri indha moonja yaarta irundhu da kadan vaangeetu vandha?"

(Who do you think you got that little kid face from, man?)

"Macha. Naan unmaiyaave kozhandha dha da. Enna poi apdilaa nenaikaadha da.."

(Dude, I'm just being a real kid here. How can you not see that?)

I maintained my innocent expression even more.

It's so funny to tease our best friend and make them frustrated like this, isn't it?

"Enna macha thaedra?"

(What are you searching for, dude?)

I asked, when he turned here and there.

"Illa unna adichaadhu inniku unmaiya vaangaama poga koodaadhu.. adhaa edhaadhu kai ku maatumaa'nu paakuren"

(I can't let you walk away without spilling the truth today... So, I'm just searching for something to hit you with something that'll make you confess.)

Finally, his gaze landed on my phone resting on the table between us. I swallowed hard and quickly grabbed my phone before he could reach for it.

He shot me a glare, but a small smile crept onto his lips despite himself. I returned the smile, but he said,

"Phone'eh kudraa"

(Give me the phone)

"Poda"

(You go away)

"Phone'eh kudu, Aayush. Adhaa nee onnum pannala'le? Apro enna? Kudu..."

(Give me the phone, Aayush. Haven't you done anything? Then what? hand it over..)

"Naan onnum pannala, da. Enna namba maatiyaa Deva? Naan un Deva illayaa?"

(I'm not doing anything, man. What do you think I am, Deva? Am I not your Deva?)

"Illa da. Kudu"

(No. Give it)

But I stood up, playfully tapped the top of his head, and dashed out of the cabin, saying,

"Enakku mukkiyamaana oru vela iruku,da. Bye!"

(I've got something important to do, man. Bye!)

And I chuckled as I moved toward the lift, dialing her number after making sure no one was around. But it went unanswered. Scrunching my face, I wondered if the call wasn't getting through because I was in the lift.

So, I tried again once I stepped out onto the ground floor, but it went unanswered again. A wave of frustration washed over me, accompanied by a low feeling and an unfamiliar anger bubbling up for what seemed like a silly reason. I knew it was silly, but I couldn't shake off the overthinking about why she wasn't picking up.

My face turned rigid as I stepped into the restroom, slamming the door shut behind me. I felt the curious stares of two or more students inside, but I brushed it off. The tension coiled tighter within me, and,

I knew this day would become a nightmare for anyone who unknowingly crossed my path.

Seetha

Once again, there was a 'just'uh miss kiss' moment at his homestay!

The next day, the thoughts of him trying to kiss me for the second time, and the way his rough hand squeezed my waist, made me blush a deep red. I struggled to concentrate on the ritual unfolding before me. My cousin Aarthi was giggling shyly as our aunts took turns pouring herbal water over her head. I smiled, tucking my saree into my waist and stepping forward to help them while also teasing my little cousin, who was blossoming into a woman.

As the ritual progressed, I imagined Aarthi would soon tire of posing for photos-a regret she would surely feel in the future. But, I shook my head, grinning widely when she flashed me a tired smile. I moved closer to console her but stopped short when the phone tucked into my waist vibrated.

The sudden jolt made me jerk back, and I quickly glanced around, with a stealthy look to ensure no one was watching. And, without waiting for anyone to notice, I hurried into the adjacent room, locking the door behind me before answering the call and placing it to my ear. After speaking with him, I returned to the ritual to help my sister. The atmosphere buzzed with joy, and I found comfort in the warmth of family as we celebrated this special moment together.

And that night, I did something really embarrassing when I called his father. The call connected, and I started shouting over the loud music from a temple function in the background. But then, I heard an elderly man's voice respond,

"Hello, Aayush irukkaaraa?"

(Hello, is Aayush there?)

"Irukkaaru. Please hold on. Naan avarkitta phone'eh kudukuren"

(Yes, he is. Please, hold on, I'll call him for you)

Ohh. But, neenga yaaru?"

(Ohh. And who are you?)

"I'm..."

I frowned and called out,

"Hello?"

"I'm his father."

Oh I see.

In a mischievous mood and trying to make sure Aayush sir wouldn't find out, I started speaking to him in a playful tone:

"Ma...ma"

I waited for his reaction with a sheepish grin.

"Mama? Yaaru ma nee?"

( Who are you, dear?)

"Mama, naan yaaru nu therilayaa? Naan dha. Unga marumagal. En husband irukkaaraa?"

(Mama, don't you recognize me? Me. your daughter-in-law. Is my husband there?)

I suppressed my giggle.

"Husband? Yaaru ma nee? Thappaana number ku call panneetinga nu nenaikiren"

(Husband? Who are you, dear? I think you've dialed the wrong number)

Haiyooo..

"Illa mama. Naan correct'ah dha panneerken. Neenga Aayush Kumar oda appa dhane?"

(No, mama. I've dialed correctly. You're Aayush Kumar's father, right?)

"Yes"

"Appo naan dha Aayush Kumar oda pondatti"

(Then I'm Aayush Kumar's wife)

I said, blushing, while the other end fell silent.

"Hello? Mama, irukkelaa?"

(Hello, mama, are you there?)

"Mm irukken ma. Hold on. Naan un husband kitta phone'eh kudukuren neenga pesunga"

(Mmm, I'm here, dear. Hold on, I'll give the phone to your 'husband'-you can speak to him)

Before I could stop him and explain it was all in fun, he started telling Aayush sir everything, leaving me to slap my forehead and cover my face in embarrassment.

I chuckled at the thought and the next night after playing with my cousins, I finally fell asleep beside them, but not before hating him for not waiting for my call before going to sleep.

Expect pannadhu en thappu dha !

(Expecting something is my mistake!)

Huffing, I sent him several messages, deleting two where I had scolded him, then rested my hand on Dhaya and drifted off to sleep.

But, in the middle of my slumber, my lips curved at the tickling sensation in the crook of my neck. Scrunching my face, I turned to my right, moving my hand away from Dhaya, and settled back into sleep.

However, my brows knitted together when I felt something firm wrap around my waist. I opened my eyes to see a manly hand resting there. My eyes widened, and I turned my face to shout upon seeing who was beside me, but his hand quickly covered my mouth, muffling my cry.

I gulped and wriggled, but he tightened his grip around my waist and drew me closer, making my eyes widen.

But, slowly, he slid his palm away from my mouth, grazing my lips with his fingers as he smirked, causing me to wriggle again, whispering,

"Neenga yen ippo inga vandhirukinga?"

(Why are you here now?)

"Unna paaka dha"

(Just came to see you)

I gulped at his warm tone, instinctively placing my palms on his chest as he smirked, that kind of hot look that could melt anyone.

As I started to melt halfway in his embrace, I suddenly shrieked and pushed him away when I felt the warmth of his bare skin against my palms. Turning around, I quickly covered my face with my hands, expecting him to either scold me for the sudden push or... do something else.

But after a long pause with no movement behind me, I slowly removed my hands from my face and turned back, only to find no one in the spot where he'd been moments before.

Confused, I sat up and scanned the dimly lit room, illuminated more by the faint glow of moonlight than the actual light, but he was nowhere to be seen.

I nervously bit my nail, glancing over my shoulder at Dhaya, who was peacefully sleeping, even drooling a little.

Sighing, I leaned over the bed and peeked under it, but still, he was nowhere. Startled and unsure, I quickly sat back up, shook my head in disbelief, and wrapped the bedsheet tightly around myself from head to toe.

Then, closing my eyes, I began murmuring Perumal shlokams, hoping to steady my mind.

"Govindha, govindha,
Gopala govindha
Narayana hare hare
Narayana hare hare

Govindha, govindh.."

Suddenly, I froze, feeling a warm breath against the nape of my neck. My eyes squeezed shut even tighter, but panic surged through me as I suddenly felt my hands being pinned above my head, trapping me beneath the duvet.

My vision was swallowed by darkness, but I could feel the soft brush of his hair tickling my neck and cheek. Before I could even process the shock, a sharp wave of shivers and pleasurable pain shot through me as his teeth sank firmly into the crook of my neck, igniting sensations I hadn't expected.

"Aah.. perumaaley"

I threw the duvet off me, panting heavily, my hand instinctively cupping the side of my neck where I could still feel the lingering sting of his bite. My eyes darted around the room, trying to make sense of what had just happened.

Suddenly, the lights were on bright, and in that moment of confusion, I heard the door burst open.

My heart raced as I saw my maami, amma, appa, mama, and a whole relatives rushing into the room, their concerned faces scanning the scene before them.

"Seetha Enna di ma aachu?"

(What happened dear?)

"Seetha kutty yen di ma appadi kathuna?"

(Why did you shout, Seetha?)

"Sollu Seetha, enna aachu?"

(Tell us, Seetha. What happened to you?)

"Akka, ennaachu ka?"

(Sister, what happened?)

Even the kids beside me on the bed awake, their innocent voices filled with curiosity as they asked what was going on but my mind still reeling from the shock. My eyes scanned the room desperately, searching for any sign of him. But he wasn't there. He hadn't been beside me.

I repeated to myself, It was just a dream. Just a dream.

Yet, the sensation on my neck still felt too real. Slowly, I exhaled, trying to calm my racing heart, convincing myself that it was all my dream.

"Thanni kodu, Ananthi"

(Give her some water, Ananthi)

"Aahn. Seetha. Inga paaru. Amma paaru da. Indhaa thanni kudi"

(Mmm. Seetha. Look here. Look at, amma. Here, have some water)

I took a slow sip of water, feeling the cool liquid calm me as I clutched onto her hand, using the tumbler as a shield to hide my burning cheeks.

My mind raced with embarrassment, and I could barely meet anyone's gaze-parents, relatives, or even the kids around me.

What would they think of me if they knew that I'm dreaming about my professor- like that?

Maanam poradhu. Aiyooo...

(My dignity is slipping away. Aiyooo...)

I mentally face-palmed again, feeling the awkwardness hit me hard. Gulping down the entire tumbler of water, I wiped my lips hastily. Just as I was about to compose myself, Maami cupped my left cheek gently, making me tense up. But then I realized the hand that had landed on my lap was Dhaya's, who was blinking up at me, half-awake.

I gulped, forcing a nervous smile at everyone, trying to act as if nothing strange had happened.

"Enna di ma aachu?"

(What happened dear?)

Maami questioned me again, her tone filled with concern, but I felt utterly tongue-tied. My mind raced, desperately searching for an excuse, but nothing came to my lips. I simply sat there, feeling all eyes on me.

Yedha naan solluven. Ennatha solluven. Epdi solluven.

(What can I even say? What should I say? How do I even explain that?)

"Seetha"

My father called out to me, and I gulped as I met his gaze, my voice trembling as I replied,

"Appa. Kanavu. Kett..ketta kanavu kanden pa"

(Appa, it was just a dream. A really bad dream)

"Aiyo. Chinna kozhandhaiyaa di nee? Ivala yendha naal'le da Shashtri nee petha? Paaru ketta kanavu kanden'nu chinna kozhandha maadhiri soldraa. Idhukku dha sonnen ivalukku ipdi chellam kuduthu kedukaadha'nu"

(Aiyo, such a little child you are, huh? On what day did you give birth to this girl, Shashtri, huh? Look at her, saying 'I had a bad dream' like a little kid. This is why I told you not to spoil her with too much pampering)

That old lady, Parvathy, started her usual work. Appa's gaze fixed on me, sharp. I gulped nervously before saying,

"Sorry, pa"

"Paduthu thoongu ma pesaama. Chinna kozhandhainga'laa endhiruchiruchu paaru unnaala"

(Go back to sleep silently, dear. Look at what you've done, you've woken up all the little kids because of you)

I lowered my head, hearing Appa sigh in disbelief as he walked out of the room. Slowly, I lifted my face, only to see Paarvathy grinning at me mischievously. I shot her a glare, gritting my teeth in frustration. She smirked one last time before disappearing behind Appa, leaving me fuming.

"Seetha"

I turned around and smiled at my mother, who had softly called my name. But he asked,

"Kaluthula yen kai vachirukka?"

("Why are you holding your neck?)

My smile dropped as I began to remove my hand from my neck, but midway, I hesitated and placed it back.

A strange fear crept in-what if it wasn't just a dream? What if that bite was real?

"Ka..ka..kaluthu puduchukuchu ma"

(My...my... neck is hurting, amma)

"Puduchukuchaa?"

(Hurting?)

"Aa..aama. Ve..vegamaa endhiruchabodhu su..sulikeerchu"

(Y-yes, ma. When I suddenly woke up, I felt a bit of cramping)

"Enna da nee.. kanavu'ku laa bayapadalaamaa? Vaa vandhu paduthukko"

(What's wrong with you, dear? Are you scared of a dream? Come here and take some rest)

She gently made me lie down on the bed, and I turned to my left, burying my neck against the pillow, eyes tightly shut. I could feel my mom's soft caresses in my hair and her gentle taps, which lulled me back to sleep as I clutched my duvet tightly to my chest.

The next morning, before anyone else was awake, I slipped into the washroom and quickly checked my neck and waist, shaking my head vigorously to dismiss any lingering thoughts. I then took a hair bath, dressing in a beautiful sandal-coloured saree.

As I rounded the thulsi plant, I murmured a Perumal shlokams, hoping to vanish the memories of that strange and blush-inducing dream.

Amma and Paati exchanged puzzled looks as I performed my puja in the prayer room, chanting the shlokams loudly enough to drown out the echoes of his husky voice in my mind. Meanwhile, the relatives watched with admiration, whispering to their kids and young daughters to consider me their inspiration.

"Akka've paathu kathukko di ma. Neeyum periyavaal'aanaa ipdidha irukkanum. Purinjadhaa?"

(Look at your sister and learn, okay? You need to be as mature as her when you attain her age. Got it?)

I squeezed my eyes shut even tighter and chanted the shlokas loudly, drowning out their voices as I thought,

"Naan yen puja pandren'nu nekku dhaane theriyum. Perumaaley. Yen un ponnuku ipdi oru sangadamaana nilamai?"

(Only I know very well why I'm performing this puja. Lord. Why is your child's life in such a chaotic state?)

I took Dhaya and a few of my cousins to the nearby temple, settling down on the steps of the "theppa kulam". I placed one hand on my lap while the other rested on my knee, propping my cheek up with my palm as I drifted deeper into thought.

My cousins played joyfully in the temple and the surrounding streets, treating the entire area of Srirangam as if it belonged to them. Meanwhile, my mind was stuck in Ooty, even though I had performed a special puja for the God and distributed prasadham to the devotees.

"Chey, oru kanavu vandhu ipdi panneerchey"

(I am really messed up with just a dream)

I buried my face in my knees, trying to hide the embarrassment and frustration.

"Ponga perumaal. Ennoda pesaadhingo. Enna ippadi polamba vachu paakuradhu'le ungalukku apdi enna sandhosham?"

(Perumal. Don't talk to me. What joy do you get from making me rant like this?)

I groaned softly but then heard,

"Appadi yedharkaaga kuzhandhaai ivvalavu kulappathil ullaai?"

(Why is my child so troubled?)

I frowned and turned, murmuring,

"Perumaaley"

But, my frown deepened further as I took in the sight of the man sitting beside me-medium-length curly hair and a full beard, giving him a rugged yet strangely a good look. His light blue shirt had the collar open wide, and the sleeves were casually rolled up. Despite the unfamiliarity of the moment, my gaze shifted instinctively back to his face, only to find him smiling at me and I asked,

"Aaru neenga?"

(Who are you?)

"Perumal'nga. Neenga dhane kooptinga?"

(Perumal ma'am, was it you who called me?)

He muttered in disbelief, my eyes narrowing in suspicion as I stared at the man. He chuckled and said,

"Okay, okay. Apdi kevalamaa paakaadhinga. I'm Sai Krishna"

(Okay, okay. Don't look at me like that. I'm Sai Krishna)

He extended his hand for a handshake with a broad smile, but I responded with a frown. Noticing my reaction, he pulled his hand back and shrugged his shoulders.

"Fine. Neenga yaaru'nu therinjukalaamaa?"

(Fine. May I know who you are?)

He asked me. I shot him a disbelieving look.

"Aaru'nu theriyaadha ponnu'te ipdidha thaniyaa vandhu pesuvaalaa?"

(Are you really talking to me without knowing who I am?)

Shaking my head, I stood up and climbed the steps, moving past him while clutching my saree pallu in my hand, disbelief washing over me as I murmured,

"Vandhura vendiyadhu"

(These perverted guys)

Huffing and puffing, I reached the area where my cousins were playing. Dhaya quickly dragged me into the game, so I tucked my saree pallu in my wasit and joined them for a round of cricket.

Thattu thadumaari velayaandu mudikalaanu ponen paarungo, appodha..

(When I was nearly going to finish off the game... that's when..)

I stopped, feeling a strong gaze on me, and turned back to see him again. He stood at the edge of the playground, his eyes fixed on me, a bemused expression on his face. I knitted my brows and twisted my lips, feeling a mix of annoyance and curiosity.

Turning away to focus on the game, I murmured,

"Vidu di Seetha, nee already taken'nu theriyaama vaalaatraan. Paavam yaaru petha pullaiyo"

(Let it go, Seetha. He don't know that you're already taken? Poor guy)

I flipped my hair back and, after playing for a while and having lunch at the temple, we headed back home. The children raced ahead, leaving me standing at the entrance, frozen in place. There he was again-the same man from earlier, sitting on our living room couch, smiling at me.

I glared at him and approached him, ready to demand what he wanted. But as I got closer, my pace slowed when I saw Appa and Mama emerge from their room, beside an elderly man whose gaze immediately landed on me, a wide smile spreading across his face.

"Namma Seethaa'vaa idhu?"

(Is she our Seetha?)

"Adhukulla marandhuttiyaa Krishna?"

(Have you forgotten her so easily, Krishna?)

Appa asked him.

"Chinna kozhandhaiyaa irukkumbodhu paarthadhu. Aana eppadi marakka mudiyum, Shashtri?"

(I saw her when she was just a little kid. But how can I forget her, Shashtri?)

I looked at the old man with a nervous smile, unsure of how to address him.

"Seetha. Inga vaa"

(Seetha. Come here)

I walked toward Appa, passing by the man I had seen in the temple, and stood beside him. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder and asked,

"Idhu aaru'nu theriyardhaa ma nokku?"

(Do you know who this is, dear?)

I looked at the old man again, forcing a nervous smile, and clasped my hands in greeting.

"Vanakkam"

(Hello)

But he smiled warmly at me, his eyes filled with affection.

"Idhu un mama, Krishnan da. Naama nee kutty paapa'vaa irukkumbodhu ivaa aathula dhane irundhom? Marandhuttiyaa?"

(This is your uncle, Krishnan. Don't you remember? We used to live in his house when you were a little girl)

I heard my appa says, and I frowned, trying to dig up memories, but nothing came to mind.

"Ava porandha moonu varshathulaye Ooty ku kooptu poitelae'naa, pinna eppadi en marumagalukku nyaabagam irukkum?"

(You took her to Ooty when she was just three years old, right? So how would my daughter-in-law remember us?)

Marumagal'aah?

(Daughter-in-law?)

I quickly turned my head toward the voice and saw the elderly woman emerging from the kitchen alongside my mother, both wearing smiles.

"Ivangala dha nyaabagam illa. Un mama, Sai'aavadhu nyaabagam irukkaa nokku?"

(Right. You don't remember us. Do you remember your mama, Sai?)

The woman asked me, pointing at the man I had seen in the temple, who was now smirking at me. I quickly averted my gaze from him, feeling utterly frustrated.

Mama. Marumagal. Ughhh.. aaru ivaa'laa..

(Mama, daughter-in-law.. ughh.. who the hell are these people)

I slipped away from my father's hold as I felt the weight of everyone's gaze on me.

"Naan poi fresh aageetu varen, pa"

(I'll go freshen up, pa)

Saying that, I quickly left the room and slammed the door shut behind me. I locked the door, and went to wash my face. When I returned, I saw my phone chiming. I plopped down on the bed and grabbed my phone, only to see missed calls from the man I love.

With a sigh of relief, I called him back, but he declined the call without answering.

Sadness washed over me, and my eyes brimmed with tears as I struggled with everything that had happened. I cried for a while, overwhelmed by a wave of mood swings that resulted in my periods starting and a stomach ache.

I stayed in my room, speaking only to my mom and maami when they came in to give me food. And, I cried for the first two days, unable to understand why I was feeling this way.

The thought that my man hadn't called me back weighed heavily on my heart. As the next week rolled in, I finally stepped out of my room, gripping my phone tightly in my hand.

Just as I lifted it to check for messages, I heard the ringtone but before I could react, I dashed into someone standing in front of me. And a hand clutched my bare waist beneath my saree, causing me to shriek in disgust and push the person away.

To my bad luck, it was the same concerned man I had met at the temple, whom they had introduced as my mama.

My eyes brimmed with tears again, and I quickly retreated back to my room, locking the door behind me. I plopped down on the bed, crying out loud as I tossed my phone aside. Just then, it rang again. I picked it up, still sobbing, and answered without a moment's hesitation.

"Seetha"

"K..Kamali"

I cried out to her, feeling my heart lighten as her soothing words washed over me. With a newfound energy, I headed out of the room, where Dhaya eagerly dragged me along to play. We spent the evening playing together, trying to forget everything that had been weighing on my mind.

But despite the laughter and joy, the outburst of disgust from earlier lingered. The thought of allowing someone else to touch me filled me with sickened feeling, and I couldn't shake the worry about my professor. The silence from him was piercing, and I feared he had forgotten all about me.

Enna marandhutte'laa, professor?

(Have you forgotten me, professor?)

*******

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

Please vote and comment ❤🙏

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