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Longgggg chapter ahead!

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Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Seetha

Wiping my damp hair with a towel as I stood before the mirror, I blushed at the memory of our moments together in the rain.

My gaze drifted to the window, and after setting the towel down on the bed, I opened the windows to see the rain still pouring heavily. I looked toward his house terrace, but the downpour made it impossible to see anything clearly.

Smiling to myself, I turned away and picked up my phone from the table, unplugging it from the charger. I unlocked the screen and switched on the internet, only to be greeted by a flood of messages and notifications.

As I swiped through them one by one, my eyebrows furrowed when I saw,

"Professor has requested to follow you..."

Frowning, I tapped the notification to see a profile picture of a man in a black-and-white striped shirt. I gasped, realizing who it was.

Without a second thought, I hit "follow back" button and quickly dialed his number.

I chirped, 

"Hello!" 

But was met with,

"Avan kuluchuttu irukkaan'nu nenaikiren, ma. Apro koopda soldren"

(I think he's taking a bath, dear. I'll tell him to call you later)

The same old man's voice.

"Okay uncle"

"Uncle?"

His voice came in a teasing tone, and I couldn't help but smile as I replied,

"Naan ungakitta pesanum, mama. Unga number thara mudiyumaa?"

(I need to talk to you, mama. Could you give me your number?)

"Enkitta neenga enna venaa pesalaam, ma. Aana oru vishyam mattum avane sonnaa dha correct'aah irukkum. So, naan number tharen, Mrs. Aayush, aana vera yedhuvum enkitta kekka koodaadhu. Okay'ah ungalukku?"

(You can talk to me about anything. But for one particular thing, it would be best if he tells you directly. So, I'll give you the number, Mrs. Aayush, but don't ask me anything else. Is that okay with you?)

I chuckled and said,

"Naan yedha pathiyum kekuradhukkaaga number kaekala, mama. Ungakooda pesanum'nu thonudhu. Avlodha"

(I didn't ask for the number to discuss anything in particular, mama. I just felt like talking to you. That's all)

He hummed and shared his number. I saved it as "Mama" ,  and he declined the call.

Then, I dialed his number again. He picked up, immediately.

"Hello, mama"

"Mmm.. unga paeru enna, ma?"

(What is your name, dear?)

"Avarkitta kaettutu, naane oru naal ungala nerla vandhu paakuren, mama. Saaptinglaa?"

(I'll ask him and come see you in person one day, mama. Have you eaten?)

I hung the wet towel on the chair near the bed and then sat down, leaning back against the headboard, hearing him say,

"Saapten, ma. Neenga?"

(Yes, dear. What about you?)

"Saapten, mama.. apro.."

(Had, mama. Then..)

I was about to ask him about Aayush sir, but just then, I glanced at my phone screen as a vibration echoed. And, I smiled, seeing his name flashing on the screen.

"Avan kuluchuttu vandhuttaan'nu nenaikiren. Neenga pesunga. Naan morning unakku call pandren"

(I think he's done with his bath and is coming now. You talk to him. I'll call you in the morning)

I smiled hearing him and said,

"Seringa, mama. Good night"

(Alright, mama)

There was a pause, and then he chuckled softly, saying,

"Unmaiyaave inniku nalla thoonguven, ma. Have a great night. Seekram thoongunga"

(Honestly, I will sleep well tonight, dear. Have a great night. Sleep soon both of you)

I smiled slightly at the weight of his words as he ended the call after a moment. Letting out a sigh, I dialed my professor's number again. He picked up and said,

"Madam, busyy..."

He dragged out his words teasingly.

"Aama romba important aana person kooda peseetu irundhen. Neenga enna pandringa?"

(Yeah, I was talking to someone really important. What are you doing?)

"Mmm.. dress change pandren"

(Mmm... I'm changing my dress)

I gasped out loud. 

"Whattt?!" 

Then, I shook my head at the thought of seeing his navel that day during the trip, and the memory made my vision blur for a moment.

"Yes. Now changed. Finallyy..." 

He said, a hint of relief in his voice.

And, I heard him take a huge breath, followed by the faint sound of something like a cover opening. I squinted my eyes, trying to make sense of the noise, and then asked,

"Adhukullayaa?"

(So soon?)

"Aama oru shorts poda evlo naal aagum?"

(Yeah, how many days will it take to wear a shorts?)

That's right, actually.

Men are really lucky.

"Ungalukku enna pa.."

(Big people!)

"Enna?"

(What?)

"Onnulaye"

(Nothing)

"En room'uh, en dress'uh, en body naan epdi venaa iruppen.. neeyum venaa un room'le epdi venaa iru"

(In my room, in my dress, in my body, I'll be however I want... and you, you can be however you want in your room as well)

"Ungala maadhiri'laa ennaala irukka mudiyaadhu, pa. Poi evlo neram aachu ippodha kuluchu mudikiringlaa?"

(I can't be like you, pa. How long has it been since you returned from there? You've just finished your bath, haven't you?)

He murmured something under his breath, too low for me to hear.

"Hello. Kekkala.."

(I can't hear you)

"Kekka koodaadhu, ma, adhellaa.. saaptiyaa?"

(You shouldn't hear all that, ma. Have you eaten?)

He asked, his tone shifting back to casual.

"Neenga petcha maathaama enna'nu sollunga. Illanaa nekku mandaiye vedichirum"

(Don't just leave me hanging, tell me what you meant. Otherwise, my head will start aching)

 I said with frustration. But, he whined,

"Venaa, ma"

(You don't need to, ma)

"Nekku venum. Sollunga"

(But I want to know. Tell me)

I insisted, not letting it go.

He groaned on the other end, frustration clear in his voice. That made me squint my eyes, trying to understand what was going on.

What happened to him? I thought

"Hello"

"Mch, Seethaa..."

He breathed out, the sound heavy on the other end. My heart skipped a beat when I heard my name in his deep voice, and I hummed softly, 

"Hmm"

There was a moment of silence before he spoke again, his tone more relaxed now.

"An hour of cold shower.. podhumaa? illa enna, epdi, enga'nu edhaadhu sollanumaa?"

(An hour of cold shower... is that enough? Or should I say something like what? how? where?) 

He asked, his tone teasing.

I tried to process his words for a moment, my mind racing. Suddenly, I gasped, widening my eyes in shock as I exclaimed,

"Yovv"

The realization hit me all at once, and I couldn't help but feel a little flustered.

And his reply to my exclamation was simple, yet somehow made my heart race.

"Enna di?" 

His voice low and slightly teasing.

I felt something blur my vision at the way he said di—his voice deep, almost groaning. 

It struck me, and I cleared my throat, trying to shake off the fluttering sensation in my chest.

"I hate you!" 

I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.

He chuckled softly..

"Alright" 

He said, a playful glint in his tone. 

"Keep hating me"

"Chey. Naan ungakooda pesave poradhu illa"

(Chey. I won't talk to you anymore)

"Pinna vera enna panna pora?"

(Then what else can you do?)

"Adikka poren"

(I'm going to finish)

"Adipaavi, nenachen nee kudippa nu. Adhey maadhiri soldra"

(What a woman you are! I thought you would be drinking. See, you're saying the same thing as well)

I frowned.

"Hein?"

"Half'ah? full'ah?"

(Half or full?)

I could hear the sound of sipping and gulping between his words, making me realize he was probably drinking right now.

Annoyed, I replied,

"Abachaaram'ah pesaadhel"

(Don't speak like a fool)

"Yaaru naanaa? Nee dha thanni adikka poren'nu sonna"

(Who? Me? You're the one who said you're going to smack the bottle of alcohol finish)

"Naan thanni'ngra word kooda use pannala. Naan ungala adikka poren'nu dha sonnen"

(I didn't even use the word 'alcohol' I said I'm going to hit you)

"Aww, that's so pleasure of you. You know..." 

He said with a playful tone, teasing me further.

And I noted one thing that, I shouldn't call a man when he's full in his drinks.

"An hour of shower and now an another hour of drinks. Am I right?" 

I tried to sound serious and angry.

But,

"Take 500 points!"

He exclaimed which made me roll my eyes and say,

"Mch, yen ipdi kuduchuttu irukkinga?"

(Mch, why are you drinking like this?)

"Naan rombaa sandhoshamaa irukken"

(I am very happy)

I smiled, and asked,

"Ippo neenga kulichinglaa illayaa?"

(Have you taken a bath now or not?)

"Mmm mm.. kudichuttu kulichuttu irukken"

(Mmm mm... I've had a drink and now a bath)

I narrowed my brows.

"Illa illa.. kuluchuttu kuduchuttu irukken"

(No, no.. I've taken a bath and now am drinking)

I sighed.

"Adhu seri.. nekku nannaa theriyardhu neenga enna panneetu irukkel'nu.. porum kudichadhu poi paduthu thoongunga"

(Alright... I can see well enough what you are doing... enough drinking, go lie down and sleep)

"Mhum"

"Professor, naan soldren'le? Naan sonnaa kekka maate'laa?"

(Professor, I'm telling you, aren't I? Won't you listen if I say it?)

I asked, softly, and he just hummed in response.

"Mmm"

"Ponga poi thoongunga"

(Just go and sleep)

When I expected him to end the call and finally get some rest, he called out my name, softly,

"Seetha.."

"Enna?"

(What?)

"Thank you so much"

He said, his voice unusually sincere.

I squinted, trying to figure out the reason behind his sudden gratitude, but a smile crept onto my lips anyway. 

"Yedhukku?"

(For what?)

"Ellaathukkum.. (he paused)... enna vittutu mattum poidaadha di.. sethiruven"

(For everything... (he paused)... don't ever leave me and go, okay?... I'd be lost without you)

He rushed through his words, as if fearing I might slip away from him at any moment, and it made my eyes blur with emotion.

I took a steady breath, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill, and replied gently,

"Seri poi padunga pesaama"

(Alright. Now, just go and sleep)

"Vittutu poga maata'nu sollu"

(Say that you won't ever leave me)

He said, his voice almost pleading.

Closing my eyes for a moment, letting the weight of his words settle in, I then whispered,

"Poga maaten, pa"

(I won't leave you, pa)

"Nee enkoodaye iruppa'le? Amma maadhiri vittutu poga maata'le?"

(You'll stay with me, right? You won't leave me like Amma did, will you?)

The vulnerability in his voice broke my heart.

"Maaten"

(I won't)

"Naan unna enna pannaalum pogaadha seriyaa?"

(No matter what I do, you won't leave me, right?)

He asked me with the seriousness of a little kid.

I chuckled softly, and said,

"Seri"

"Mmmmmm... ippo time enna?"

(What's the time now?)

"One aaga pogudhu"

(Almost one)

"Appo nalaiku New Year'ah?"

(So, is tomorrow New Year?)

"Aama"

(Yes)

"Nee new year'ku enna pannuva?"

(What will you do for New Year's?)

I thought for a second, and replied,

"Onnum panna maaten"

(I won't do anything)

"Happy'ah irukkumaa unakku?"

(Will you be happy?)

"Aama"

(Yeah)

"Aana naan apdi happy'ah irukka maaten"

(But I can't be that happy)

I frowned, and asked,

"Yen?"

(Why?)

"Yen'na en amma andha month dha enna vittutu poitaanga"

(Because my mom left that month)

He whispered.

"January?"

"Aama, pongal'ku next night"

(Yes, the next night after Pongal)

And, I just replied,

"Ohh"

"Pongal'uhm celebrate pannuva'le nee?"

(You will celebrate Pongal too, right?)

"Mmm"

I couldn't form any sentence.

"Aanaa naan panna maaten"

(But, I won't)

"Mmm"

"Amma pona apro naan yedhuvume celebrate pandradhu illa, Seetha"

(After mom passed, I don't celebrate anything, Seetha)

"Mmm"

I really wanted to comfort him, to take away even a fraction of the pain that lingered in his voice and in his heart. 

But I knew it wasn't something I could fix, no matter how much I wished I could.

"Bore adikiren'le? Ennoda life'uhm ipdidha bore adikkum. Venumaa unakku?"

(Am I boring you? my life will also be really this boring. Do you want that for yourself?)

And, that made me smile.

"Yosikiriyaa?"

(Are you thinking?)

"Mmm"

"Nalla yosi.. Naan wait pandren"

(Think well.. I'll wait)

"Yosichutten"

(I've finished thinking about it)

"Adhukullayaa? Innum venaa time eduthukko"

(So soon? Take more time if you need)

"Venaa"

(I don't want)

"Venamaa?"

(You don't want?)

He asked in a low, deep voice tinged with sadness, which made me smile and hum. 

"Mmm"

He paused for a moment, and I kept smiling, waiting for him to continue. 

After a minute of silence, he finally spoke.

"Ohh, seri. Naan.."

(Okay, then.. I.. )

"Naan new year'le start panni varsha kadaisila vara Christmas varaikum irukka ellaa festivals'uhm celebrate pandradhukaaga mattume ungala love panni, kalyanam panni, ungakoodave irukkanum'nlaa nenaikala, professor"

(I never thought that I would have to love you, marry you, and stay with you just to celebrate all the festivals, starting from New Year and lasting until Christmas, professor)

I whispered before he could come to any conclusion, but he didn't say anything, which made me squint my eyes in confusion.

"Iruk.."

(Are you th..)

"Irukken irukken. Aana.."

(I'm here, I'm here. But..)

"Nekku ungakooda irukka ovvaru naalum celebrate pannanum. Adhukku dha ungala love pandren, kalyanam pannikanum'nu aasa padren"

(I just want to celebrate every day with you. That's why I love you and wish to marry you)

"Pesuradhukku ellaame filmy'ah dha Seetha irukkum. But, this is real life"

(Talking like this is all film-style, Seetha, but this is real life)

He said seriously, after taking a deep breath.

"Naan love pandren'nu ungakitta sonna naal'le irundhu enna suthi ellaame filmy'ah irundhaalum, ellaame real, professor. Namma anniku campfire kita pesunadhula irundhu, inniku rain'le neenga enna kiss panna varaikum ellaame real dha. Even if it looked like a movie scene, it was all real. And everything in the future is going to be real as well. So, for your information, naan delusional'aah'laa illa, in case you think so"

(When I told you that I love you, everything around us, even if it seemed filmy, was real, professor. From the day we talked by the campfire, to the kiss you gave me in the rain today, everything was real. Even if it looked like a movie scene, it was all real. And everything in the future is going to be real. So, for your information, I'm not delusional, in case you think so)

I spat the truth, and for a moment, he was silent. Then, the silence stretched between us. 

My heart, which had been racing, began to slow down after I spoke out. Even though I felt a pang of guilt for raising my voice at him, the truth I had let out somehow eased the tension in my chest, making me feel relaxed.

"You've became my drug, Seetha"

His words hung in the air, heavy and unexpected. I blinked, taken aback by the intensity of what he said.

"Ohoo"

"Ennaala unna paakaama, kattikaama, kiss pannaama irukka mudila, theriyumaa?"

(Do you know that I can't stay without seeing you, hugging you, or kissing you?)

I chuckled at my grown-up kid's childish confession.

"Apdiyaa? Nekku theriyaadhey"

(Is that so? I didn't know, for real)

I played.

"Theriyaadhaa unakku? Enakku unna kiss pandradhu'naa romba pudikkum"

(Don't you know? I really like kissing you)

I blushed at his tone, and replied,

"Nethu dhane sir kiss'eh panna start panninga?"

(Was it yesterday, sir, that you started kissing me?)

"Aama aana adhukulla adhu enakku puduchiruchu paaru. Adhaa sonne you've became my drug'nu"

(Yes, but within that, I started liking it. That's why I said, 'You became my drug')

I tossed my hair back and lay down on the bed, blushing as I said,

"Adhu seri. Poi thoonguring'laa ippovaadhu?"

(Alright, will you go and sleep now?)

"Mmm"

But, he didn't decline the call.

This mann..

"Unkitta onnu sollanum'nu nenachen theriyumaa?"

(Do you know, I was thinking I should tell you something?)

And there, he started again.

"Enna sollanu?"

(What?)

"Actual'ah idha naan unkitta yerkanave sonnanaa illayaa?"

(Actually, did I tell you this earlier or not?)

"Enna sonninga?"

(What did you say?)

"Adhaa.. invisible aaga venaa'nu?"

(That... you shouldn't become invisible)

"Aama, sonninga"

(Yes, you said that)

"Reason sonnanaa?"

(Did I tell you the reason?)

"Mm, yeah, you said that if I became invisible, then the purple color would spread across, and I wouldn't be able to use those magical words again, nor could I become invisible again"

"Oh, reason sollalayaa appo?"

(Oh, then I didn't tell you the reason?)

I frowned.

"Idhaane reason?"

(This was the reason, right?)

"Appo naan sollala"

(So, I didn't tell you)

I became frustrated.

"Ippo enna dha solla varinga?"

(What are you going to say now?)

"Illa... naan oru vishyatha unkitta sollaama vachirukken'naa adhukku yedho reason irukkum, so venaa vidu"

(No... If I've been keeping something from you, and there'll be a reason for it, so let it be)

What?

Apro yedhukku man solla start panna?

(Then why did you start saying it?)

"Mch, professor, enna reason sollunga"

(Tell me the reason)

"Adhu(that's).. hey, wait, wait. Are you trying to get answers from me over the phone while I'm intoxicated?"

I rolled my eyes, huffing.

"Yaaru naanu?"

(Who? Me?)

"Aama. You cheater"

(Yes)

He yelled.

"Perumaley!"

(God!)

"Don't cheat him too. You cheater. Avaru thoongeetu iruppaaru"

(He must be sleeping by now)

I laughed out loud. And, he chuckled.

After composing myself, I called out him,

"Professor"

"Mmm, sollu.."

(Tell me)

"You're so cute, theriyumaa?"

(You're so cute, you know that?)

"Apdiyaa?"

(Is that so?)

"Aama.. and.."

"Shh... don't say anything"

He shushed me. I frowned and whispered,

"Why?"

"I'm sleepy"

I chuckled softly, letting him drift off to sleep, while my mind lingered on his words.

He's so adorable, and yet, he's endured every ounce of pain from his childhood. As someone grows closer to him, he unknowingly reveals that childlike side of himself, whether it's with Elangovan sir or with me. It's as if he's a child, and that side of him is buried deep within his heart. 

I feel it's my responsibility to help him explore it, and I'm eager to see that happen as well.

The pain he carried from his childhood, which has burned inside his heart, needs to be confronted and healed by him. That's the first and most important step to help him break free from the traumas of his past.

Now, his cutest side emerged when he was drunk, but that's not how it should be. It should come out naturally, on its own, without the need for alcohol, as a way for him to truly overcome his traumas. 

For that to happen, I knew the first step was to help him stop drinking.

With that thought in mind, I paced around the room, trying to come up with ideas on how to help him quit his drinking habit.

But then, I remembered him saying that he wouldn't celebrate the new year, and a smile spread across my face as I got an idea.

I hurriedly rummaged through my cupboard drawers, gathering a chart, sketch pens, a ruler, a pencil, and a few other stationery items.

Sitting on the floor between the couch and the bed, I began working, cutting small pieces of chart paper and carefully putting everything together.

In the midst of my work, I dialled Kamali's number for some help. She agreed, but not before asking what it was about. I simply told her it was a secret between me and my professor, much like how she had her own secrets with Charan.

With that, she agreed, a little tongue-tied, and I couldn't help but giggle at how my brain worked so quickly, all for him.

Indha maadhiri nokku exam hall'le moola vaela senjirundhaa nallaarndhirukkume di Seetha..

(If only you had put in this much effort in the exam hall, you would have done really well, Seetha..)

As I finished, I glanced at the clock and saw that it was almost four, feeling satisfied with my work. I cleaned everything up, washed my hands and my eyes, which were feeling heavy, and laid the chart papers out to dry.

Then, I noticed the phone call was still connected to him. With a smile, I hid my phone under my pillow, pulled the comforter over me, and switched off the little night lamp that had been on only, until I finished my work. Because, if my parents saw the main light still on, I'd be in a lot of trouble.

The next day, I woke up in the afternoon and noticed my phone beside my pillow, not under it. Panicking, I quickly flipped the comforter off and checked the screen. There were many missed calls from him.

Smiling, I decided to ignore it for now and explain it to him later. I silenced my phone and then jumped off the bed. I rushed to the cupboard, opened it, and took out the art gift, smiling as it looked even more bright and vibrant in the daylight.

New year ini epdi celebrate pannaama iruppel'nu naanu paakuren..

(I'm watching to see how you'll not celebrate the new year hereafter)

I thought to myself, proud of my little surprise, and headed to the restroom to take a shower. Afterward, I chose a dark blue kurta paired with matching white leggings and a blue-and-white mixed dupatta. I carefully placed the artwork inside my cupboard, making sure it was safe before heading outside.

After having brunch, I went back to my room, mentioning to my mother that I have some meetings to attend for the college coordinator work. I glanced at the clock, seeing it was already 3 in the afternoon. With a sigh, I checked my phone, noticing three more missed calls from him. I silently apologized to him in my mind, then dialed Kamali's number.

"Sollu, maami"

(Tell me)

"Ennatha soldradhu? Naan kaettadhu ennaachu?"

(What did I say? What happened to what I asked for?)

"Adha vaanga dha poitu irukko"

(We are going to buy it now)

"Irukko? yaarellaa?"

(We? Who all?)

"Naanu Charan'uhm dha"

(Me and Charan)

"Oh, avankitta engala pathi solleetiyaa?"

(Oh, did you tell them about us?)

"Oh, yes"

"Nokku konjamaadhu arivirukkaa? Naan ungalodadhu ipdidha poi avaa'te soldranaa?"

(Do you have any sense? Did I say anything about you both to him?)

I yelled at her.

"Maami, maami, naan onnum sollala. Chumma kathaadha. Naan yen solla poren?"

(I didn't say anything to him. Don't shout now. Why do I need to tell him all this?)

I huffed.

"Mch, pinna yen di aama'nu sonna?"

(Then why did you tell 'yes'?)

"Summa unna kova paduthi paathen, paravala nalla dha kova padra"

(Just saw you getting angry, it's okay, it's good while you're getting angry)

"Saavadichiruven unna.. ipdi thirumba edhaadhu pannanaa"

(I'll kill you... if you do anything like this again)

"Seri seri, maami tension aagudhu da, po, poi vaangu"

(Okay, okay, maami is getting tensed man, go and buy it)

"Nee enga kuppa porukka poriyaa?"

(Are you going to pick the trash?)

I laughed at Charan's comment, but he hissed, probably because he had just received a good smack from Kamali.

"Sirikaadha maami, vandhenu vai"

(Don't laugh, maami.. I'll kill you)

She threatened me, shouting at me, which only made me laugh harder. So, she just declined the call. Chuckling, I waited for them to call again, but Amma asked me to do some cleaning work on the terrace, and I rushed there without thinking about anything else. 

While I was sweeping the terrace floor, I casually glanced towards his house and my heart skipped a beat when I saw his figure standing on the terrace. However, I couldn't make out his facial expression.

Manda mela irundha kondaye marandhuttiye, Seetha..

(You forgot the most important thing, Seetha)

I waved at him hesitantly, but when I didn't receive any response, I gulped nervously and rushed downstairs, shouting,

"Ammaaaa karappaamboochi!"

(Cockroach!)

By throwing the sweeper just like that on the terrace floor.

"Enga di?"

(Where?)

Amma asked as soon as I appeared at the entrance of the kitchen. I gulped and pointed towards the stairs leading to the terrace as I answered,

"Maadi'le. Naan anga po maaten"

(In the terrace. I won't go there)

I shook my head at her. She sighed.

"Seri, naan paakuren.. nee inga hall'le mop potru"

(Okay, I'll check. You clean the hall with the mop)

"Seri, ma"

She smiled and went up to the terrace, and I sighed in relief before starting to mop the hall. But as I was mopping near the entrance, lifting the mop towards the door frame, I squealed in shock as I was suddenly lifted off the ground, the mop still raised over my head.

"Ammaaaaa!" 

But before I could react, I was pulled into the narrow space between our house and the neighbor's. And, as I turned, lifted my face to see the person, my anger flared, and without a second thought, I punched him in the chest.

"Shh.. am.."

I pressed my palm over his mouth before he could shout in pain, as I heard

"Seetha yen kathuna?"

(Why did you shout, Seetha?)

I silenced him by placing my finger on my lips and whispered,

"Stay here"

Saying that, I quickly went inside the house.

"Enna ma veedu vachirukka? ellaa edamum karappaamboochi'aah irukku?"

(What's wrong with your house? Why is every place filled with cockroaches?)

"Night'uh chalkpiece pottu vidren di. Adhepdidha un kannula mattum adhu sikkudho nekku therila, pa"

(At night, I'll put a chalkpiece there. How those only stuck in your eyes, I don't know)

I gulped as she moved back to the terrace, still blabbering. Then, I hurriedly moved towards that narrow path again, with the mop and bucket in my hands, glaring at him as he casually leaned back against the wall.

"Stop glaring at me. I called you more than 30 damn times!"

He yelled at me, angrily.

"Shh.. kathaadhel, idhu onnum unga staffroom cabin kedaiyaadhu"

(Shh... don't shout, this isn't your staffroom cabin)

He stares at me. 

"What?"

He sighed and shook his head.

"Yen en call answer pannala?"

(Why didn't you answer the call?)

"Neenga en call answer pannaadhadhukku oru reason irundha maadhiri idhukkum irukkum'nu theriyaadhaa ungalukku?"

(Don't you think there must be a reason for not answering your call, just like there was for you?)

"I was scared, Seetha"

He said stretching every word. But I narrowed my brows and asked, 

"Yedhukku?"

(For what?)

I asked, placing my hands on my waist.

"Adhu.."

(That..)

He scratched his eyebrow with his finger.

"Adhu?"

(That?)

I asked, raising my brows intimidatingly, but he grabbed my nape, pulling me close, leaving just an inch between us. I gasped while he whispered, looking directly into my eyes,

"Don't intimidate me. I was scared, okay? There's nothing wrong with me. You're wrong"

"I'm not wrong about anything. Neenga modha kelambunga"

(Leave now)

I quickly wriggled free from his grip and took a step back, reaching for the bucket. But before I could fully grab it, he caught my wrist again and pulled me back towards him, causing me to let out a small yelp.

"Shooo.. ung.."

(You..)

"Shhh"

He pressed his fingers gently to my lips, and I found myself lost in his gaze, mesmerized by his intense eyes. But before I could react, he swiftly twisted my arm behind me, pulling me closer and over him. I gasped, gripping his tshirt with both hands, my heart racing as I looked up at him, eyes wide with nervous anticipation.

"Did I say something wrong last night? Are you angry with me? Tell me, what the fuck is your problem, Seetha?"

He whisper-yelled at me, his gaze intense as he searched my eyes for the truth. I couldn't help but smile at his frustration, shaking my head before softly replying,

"Mudiyaadhu, professor"

(I won't say, professor)

His eyes flickered to my lips for a brief moment before returning to meet mine as he asked,

"You're playing with me, aren't you?"

I couldn't help but smile. But when he tightened his grip on my wrist, causing me to wince slightly, I leaned back. He followed, leaning in closer, his voice lowering as he whispered,

"I didn't say anything wrong, right?"

I bit my lips, mischievously, before responding,

"Naraya sonnel. Aana naan adha ippo solla maaten"

(You told me a lot, but I won't say what that was right now)

"Adhaa yen?"

(Why?)

"Yen'nu kettaa.."

(Why..)

"Seetha.."

I gasped in shock, hearing my amma's voice.

"Aiyo amma!"

I tried to break free from his grip, but he pulled me back, his arms tightly wrapping around my shoulders. Before I could push him away or even react, I felt a soft kiss pressed to the top-centre of my head. His voice was warm against my ear as he nuzzled his face into my hair, whispering,

"Don't try to ignore me, Seetha"

My lips curved upward as I felt his chest rise and fall against my back, realizing how close I was, almost buried beneath his shoulders, in his chest.

My cheeks flushed, but I gasped when his fingers curled around my neck, gently tilting my face upwards to meet his gaze.

His voice, deep and firm, echoed in my ears as he said,

"If you do so, I won't just be so good with you like this. Right?"

I blinked rapidly, my throat tightening as I felt the soft pressure of his hand around my neck. My breath caught in my chest, and instinctively, my fingers curled around his arm and wrist and felt his veined and hairy skin against my inner palms.

My eyes squeezed shut, the intensity of the moment overwhelming me as he leaned more closer, brushing his lips with mine. 

His hand shifted, brushing his fingers against the side of my neck, and I felt the heat of his thumb tracing the curve of my lower lip. My heart raced, my chest heavy with the proximity between us, but his breath now brushing over my right cheek.

"I asked you something, Seetha. Did you get me or not?" 

He murmured, his voice low and commanding.

I gulped, parting my lips to speak, but no words came out. Instead, I simply nodded, feeling the chill of his voice and the tone that sent a shiver down my spine.

Before I could process what had just happened, he abruptly released me, stepping back with a final smirk and a wink that snapped me back to reality. I gasped, releasing a long held breath, looking around in a daze, my heart still racing, and tried to follow his disappearing figure. 

But just as I started running in his direction, I collided with someone, stumbling backwards in shock.

"Loosu loosu. Enga di odeetu irukka?"

(Idiot, where are you running like this?)

And I gulped, looking at the person before me.

Amma!

Achacho.

"Unna dha kekuren. Enga ipdi kaal'le venni oothuna pola odeetu irukka?"

(I am asking you. Why are you running around like this?)

She asked me, but I gulped, unsure of how to respond. She glanced at my arm and then looked back at me, narrowing her brows before speaking again.

"Mop yen inga vachirukka?"

(Why is the mop here?)

"Aahn. Maap'uh.."

"Enna maap'uh nu ilukura? Inga enna panneetu irukka?"

(What are you doing here?)

I shuddered at her glare, and replied,

"Adhuvaa, ma.. adhu.. anga window'laa irukku'le? Adha thodaikalaa'nu dha vandhen"

(That's it, ma... that's... it's there by the window, right? I came here just to clean it a bit)

"Nejama vaa?"

(Really?)

She asked me with a shock.

"Yen ma ipdi kekura?"

(Why are asking me like this, amma?)

I whined.

"Illa nee ipdilaa panna maatiye di?"

(You won't do such things, right?)

I gave her a stealthy look while averting my gaze from her and said,

"Mch, Ada po, ma. Naan nalladhu panlaa'nu dha vandhen. Aana ippo mudila. Tired aayiruchu. Naan poren po"

(Mch, I came here thinking I would do something good. But now, I can't. I'm tired. I'm leaving, bye)

I walked past her, hearing her say,

"Adhaane paathen, unna'laa yaaru vandhaalum thirutha mudiyaadhu "

(That's what I thought, no matter who comes, no one can change you)

But, I just curled my wrist with my fingers, which was caught by him, with a blushy smile before rushing inside the house, into my room, and closing the door with a bang. 

Blushing at the thought of our moment, I placed my hand on my chest to control the racing heart, thinking,

"Yedhukku vandhaaru?" 

(Why did he come?)

And, I moved towards the cupboard, took the items from inside, and smiled as I traced them again with my fingers, but once again, I wondered,

"Yen poitaaru?"

(Why did he leave?)

And, I sighed and went into the restroom to wash my face.

Later that evening, I sat in front of the TV, flipping through channels while nervously biting my nails, eagerly waiting for Kamali to return with the thing I had asked her to buy.

Enga ponaa iva? Indha appa nammala veliya vittaa kooda polaam. Adhuvum vida maataa.. inniku'nu paathu part time job'ku pora restaurant'uhm moonu naal close'uh . Illanaa kooda anga poren'nu solleetu naane vaangeetu vandhiruppen.

(Where did she go? Appa is making it so difficult for me to leave the house. Even the restaurant where I am doing my part-time job is closed for the next three days. Otherwise, I would've told them I'd go there and get it myself.)

I thought to myself and glanced at my mother, who was staring at me with narrowed brows. I stopped biting my nails and smiled sheepishly at her.

"Coordinator work'le konjam pretchana ma adhaa..."

(There's a bit of pressure in the coordinator work, mom, you know...)

"Ohhh"

That was her reply.

Just that one word, not even an appropriate one, made me gulp in fear. I was about to respond when I was jolted by a voice from the house entrance.

"Hey maami!"

There was Kamali, standing with a wide smile, and then I heard,

"Adadeyy, Kamali, vaa maa, vaa"

(Come inside, Kamali)

Amma welcomed her warmly, and I let out a sigh of relief, smiling as I got up to welcome her as well. Kamali gave me a quick, scrutinizing look before turning back to Amma with a bright smile and a hug.

"Epdi irukka Kamali?"

(How are you, Kamali?)

"Nallaarken, ma. Neenga epdi irukkinga?"

(Good, ma. What about you?)

"Nannaa irukken, ma. Nee vaa utkaaru. Naan unakku tea pottu eduthuttu varen"

(I'm doing well, dear. Come, have a seat. I'll go make some tea for you)

"Seri, ma"

As soon as Amma went into the kitchen, I quickly made sure she was out of sight, then grabbed Kamali's arm, pulled her into my room, and shut the door behind us.

"Kudu kudu kudu"

(Hurry up, give it to me!)

I whispered urgently. She sighed, then took it out and handed it over. I quickly took it from her, cradling it in my hands with a big grin spreading across my face.

"Evlo idhu?"

(How much is this?)

I asked, seeing her.

"Adhu yedhukku unakku?"

(Why do you need that?)

"Kamali. Idhu nee nekku kuduthadhu illai. Idhu naan avarukkaaga vaangunadhu. So, idhu naan vaanguna maadhiri irukkanum'nu aasa padren. Ennaala veliya engayum poga mudiyaadhu'nu dha unkitta sonnen. Adhaa kekuren...idhu evlo sollu.. please.."

(Kamali, this isn't something you got for me; it's something I got for him. So, I want it to look like I bought it myself. I told you I couldn't go out, and that's why I asked for your help. Just this once, tell me.. How much was it? Please..)

I explained. She sighed.

"2500"

I grinned at her.

"Iru varen"

(Wait)

I hurried over, opened the cupboard, carefully placed the item on the shelf, and grabbed my pink purse—the one I use to keep that paper with the Invisible words. I pulled out the amount, tucked the purse back inside, and rushed back to hand her the money.

"Thanks, di"

"Ohoo"

I giggled and hugged her tightly.

"Love you"

She hugged me back and asked,

"Avarum unna love pandraaraa?"

(Does he love you?)

She asked suddenly, making my eyes widen as I pulled back and placed a finger on my lips.

"Shh. Text le enna venaa kelu soldren. But, please, veetla vandhu ipdi kekkaadha di. Amma appa paathaa avlodha"

(Ask whatever you want over text, I'll tell you everything. But please, don't bring it up like this at home. If Amma or Appa hears, that's it for me)

"Mmm. Okay. Naan yedhuvum kekkala. Aana apro epdi Kalyanam?"

(Hmm. Okay, I won't ask anything. But then, how will the marriage happen?)

I grinned, and replied,

"Adha avaa paathuppaa"

(He will take care of it)

"Appo avarum unna....?"

(Then, does he..)

"Innum sollala. Aana nekku theriyum"

(He didn't say still. But I know)

I shrugged my shoulders. She sighed.

"Ipdiye nenachuttu irukkaadha di azhaga irukkavanga ellaarum nallavangalaavum iruppaanga'nu nenaikka koodaadhu "

(Don't just keep thinking like this. Not everyone who looks charming will necessarily be good people)

I stared at her, ready to respond, but before I could say a word, we both turned at the sound of a door opening. Then, we heard,

"Inga enna da pandringa?"

(What are you both doing here?)

Amma asked us.

"Summa dha amma, peseetu irundho"

(We are just talking, amma)

Kamali responded quickly, and I shifted my gaze from Amma back to Kamali, shooting her a sharp glare.

"Seri vaanga. Veliya polaam. Indhaa Kamali nee tea kudi"

(Okay, come. We will go outside. Here, Kamali have your tea)

As they walked out of the room, chatting away, I closed the door behind Kamali with a firm slam.

"Hey, enna Seetha pandra?"

(Seetha, what's wrong?)

Amma's voice echoed from outside, but I leaned my back against the closed door, my gaze fixed on the floor, feeling a surge of disappointment, disbelief, and a sting of anger raising towards my own friend.

"Ava epdi apdi sollalaam?"

(How can she say something like that?)

Yes, I told her the same words when I met him for the first time. But he shattered that image I had of him, proving to me that he's truly a gem. I believe she'll understand him too, but still...

Still, the person I respect and love—my best friend, is now criticizing the man who means everything to me.

I know, he's the person who came into my life and became my special someone for just a few months, but, my Kamali, my friend she's beside me from childhood. And, I know who he is as well. 

So, I'll leave it to her to decide whether she sees him as a cheater or someone with a good heart.

And, I checked if the thing she bought for me was working, and then went out to find her. But by the time I reached, she had already left without saying a word to me. I sighed, took my phone, and dialed her number, but,

"Seetha. Inga vaa.."

(Come here)

Amma called me.

"Maa, naan oru two minutes'le varen"

(Maa, I'll come within two minutes)

"Enga Kamali'ku call panna poriyaa?"

(Are you going to call Kamali?)

I frowned and walked into her room, and she smiled at me before saying,

"Ava unkitta yedho puriyaama peseetaalaam. 'Paasathula yedho solleeten. Sorry sonnen'nu solleerunga amma' nu enkitta solleetu  dha ponaa. Ennaachu?"

(She seems to have said something unclear. And 'I spoke something in affection. Please tell her that I said sorry, amma' She said these and left. What happened?)

I smiled.

"Onnula, ma. Naan.."

(Nothing, ma. I..)

I sneezed twice.

"Avakitta pesikiren. Summa eppavum pola sanda dha. Naan pesuren"

(I'll talk to her. It's just the usual arguments. I'll handle it)

"Mm seri. Kannam'laa pink'aah irukku. Inga vaa.. amma'te.."

(Alright then. Your cheeks are all pink. Come here... let me see)

I rubbed my nose and walked over to her. She gently placed her palm on my forehead and then on my neck, checking for warmth.

"Kaachal'laa illaye. Nethu mazhai'le nenanjadhu sali pudikumo? Aavi pudikiriyaa?"

(No fever, it seems. You got drenched in the rain yesterday, hope you're not catching a cold. Will you steam?)

"Mhum. Venaa ma seri aageedum"

(Not needed, ma. I'll be fine)

I assured her.

"Seri poi rest edu setha neram"

(Okay, go and take rest for some time)

"Mmm"

I hummed and hurried back to my room, lying down on the bed and closing my eyes, hoping to drift off to sleep. But even in the quiet, my mind was filled with thoughts about tonight.

Aayush

I couldn't understand what her problem was now. 

I went to her house, wondering if I had done something wrong or if I'd said something careless while intoxicated. But she refused to say anything. So, I just savored her presence and the scent of her fragrance before leaving, careful not to get caught by her mother.

But once I got home, I couldn't stand the idea of just sitting around, so I called Elango and asked him to bring a few more friends to the football court for a quick game, which ended up lasting until nightfall.

After dinner outside, I went back to my room, cleaned up, since I was covered in mud and dirt, and changed into a fresh loose green vest and sandal shorts.

I plopped onto the bed and grabbed my phone to check for any calls or messages, but there were none. Rolling my eyes as thoughts of her, I lay on my stomach, resting my arms under my cheek and closing my eyes. 

A smile crept onto my lips as I pictured her beautiful dark orbs, but then my eyes shot open when,

"Hello, professor"

I gasped and quickly sat up on the bed, but she pressed a hand over my mouth, raising a finger to her own lips to silence me.

"Shhh. Katheeraadhinga"

(Don't shout)

What the..

I gently removed her hand from my mouth, gripping her wrist, and whispered,

"Inga enna panneetu irukka?"

(What are you doing here?)

"Ungala paaka dha vandhen"

(I came here to see you)

She spoke excitedly, settling down on my bed and crossing her legs comfortably. I gulped, the comforter still draped over my left shoulder, sliding across my vest cladded upper body, while my right shoulder remained partially exposed.

And, she looked absolutely stunning, even in the dim light of my room, wearing a light green half saree with a sandal-colored skirt and blouse.

"Seri kanna moodunga"

(Okay, close your eyes)

"Why?"

"Neenga kanna moodunga. Naan soldren"

(You close your eyes. I will tell you)

"Time paathiyaa? 12 aaga pogudhu"

(Did you see the time? It's almost 12)

"Adha dha naanu soldren. 12 aaga pogudhu kanna moodunga"

(And, I am saying the same thing. The time is going to be 12. So, please close your eyes)

I frowned at her, but she just sighed, lifted her hand, and gently pressed her palm over my eyes, closing them.

"Seetha.."

But, I just heard the sound of the cover opening and rummaging through something in return, and she pressed her hand firmly yet softly over my eyes.

I sat there, filled with curiosity, and when she finally removed her hand, I blinked and adjusted my eyes. Then, I looked at her, her hands twisted behind her as if hiding something from me. I furrowed my brows in confusion, bit my lower lip, took a deep breath, and asked,

"Ennaachu?"

(What's wrong?)

"Naan ungalukku onnu kudukanum"

(I have to give you something)

"Enna kudukanu?"

(What do you want to give?)

"Naan kuduppen. Aana neenga adha venaa'nu solla koodaadhu"

(I will give it. But you shouldn't say you don't want it)

I knitted my brows at her, but couldn't help smiling as I saw her pouty lips and wide, scared eyes. I chuckled before throwing my arms over her shoulders, which made a beautiful smile appear on her lips. I then said,

"Seri. Venaa'nu solla maaten"

(Alright. I won't say that I don't want it)

She smiled widely and pulled out something that looked like a little booklet, handing it to me from behind her. I removed my hand from her left shoulder and took it from her. The booklet was made of different colours of chart papers, and as I looked at it, my lips curved into a smile when I read the words,

"Flip the promises"

With cute little red roses beside the end of the sentence.

"Promises?"

I glanced at her, and she just smiled, shrugging her shoulders. I shook my head and began flipping through the pages—there were nearly fifty, each one filled with the same words,

"I promise, I won't drink"

Each page, with those four simple words, stirred emotions in me. Because, at the top right corner of every page, there was a picture of my mother. I glanced at her and said, 

"Seeth..."

But I stopped mid-sentence when she pulled out a small square-shaped electronic device and a tiny microphone. She connected them to her phone via Bluetooth and brought it closer to my mouth.

"Naan soldradha sollunga"

(Repeat, what I say)

"Seetha.."

Though it felt childish, the effort she was putting in for me was making me emotional.

But little does she understand that I would stop drinking whenever she is near me.

"Professor"

"Yedhukku ma idhellaa?"

(Why all this, ma?)

"Enakkaaga seiya maating'laa? I just don't want you to drink, hereafter"

(Would you not do it for me? I just don't want you to drink)

I smiled, and she smiled back before saying,

"I promise, I won't drink ever"

I repeated,

"I promise, I won't drink ever"

"Are you sure?"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm"

"Yes, I'm"

"How much sure?"

"How much sure?"

"Like how much I love my mother"

"Like how much I love my mother"

"I repeat"

"I repeat"

"I won't drink forever"

"I won't drink forever"

"And I'm so sure about it"

"And I'm so sure about it"

"Hundred percent"

I chuckled, pinched her right cheek, and said,

"Infinity percent sure, just for the effort my student has put in for me"

She grinned and clicked the off button, then turned it on again to listen to the recording. It was filled with my promises, along with her soft whispers, which made me smile. I looked at her as she grinned, staring at the recording on the bed.

With a smile, I yanked her towards me, holding the back of her neck, and hugged her tightly, closing my eyes with a smile. Meanwhile, she gasped in surprise, placing her palms on my thighs, but at the sound of the blast in the sky, she hugged me even tighter, kneeling down before me. 

I nuzzled into her neck, and with a panting voice, she said,

"Happy New Year, professor"

I smiled, running my hands over her long hair, smoothly caressing her and giving her warmth as I replied,

"Happy New Year, student"

She giggled.

"I'm not a student anymore"

"Okay, ex-student"

She laughed, and I smiled, gripping her tightly to me. I breathed in deeply, taking in her fragrance to warm myself, then placed a gentle kiss on the crook of her neck. She leaned her cheek on my shoulder, giving me space to place soft kisses along her neck, and we stayed like that for a few minutes.

After a moment, I found myself lying on the bed, groaning.

"Ennaachu?"

(What happened?)

I glanced up at her, standing near my legs. Placing my hands under my head, I said,

"Inniku fullaa football velayaada poiten ma. Adhaa body pain'ah irukku"

(I played football the whole day today. That's why I have body pain)

"Ohh" 

She said softly, then glanced around the room, walking with a gentle smile as she took in everything. And, she traced her fingers along my mother's photo, whispering, 

"Happy New Year, ma"

I smiled, watching her as she moved behind me. I rolled onto my stomach to get a better view, seeing her standing by the window. She opened it, allowing the cool breeze to drift in. 

But strangely, I didn't feel any shivers or chill, as usual—maybe it was her warmth filling the room, a warmth that eased the usual emptiness of my space.

She suddenly turned with that beautiful smile and said,

"Mazha illa inniku"

(There's no rain today)

I hummed, watching her as she smiled back before turning to look outside the window. There, my eyes started roaming over her without any hesitation. I didn't know why I felt so at ease doing so. I rubbed my beard, but just then, she turned and smiled at me. My gaze drifted to her slightly visible waist, and I bit my lower lip, quickly averting my eyes and rubbing the back of my neck as I heard her say,

"Naan appo kelambattumaa?" 

(Shall I leave?)

"Yedhukku?"

(For what?)

She frowned at me. I sighed.

"Inga vaa.."

( Come here..)

I grabbed her wrist, pulling myself up slightly and guiding her towards the bed. She landed on her stomach as well with a soft thud, her eyes widening in surprise as our faces ended up just inches apart. I hadn't expected it either. 

Her quivering lips completely captivated me, stirring something deep inside, yet I held back, just keeping my gaze locked with hers. Her eyes held something beyond love, something I couldn't even name. I smirked, but she exhaled a deep sigh and shifted onto her back, my face hovering just above hers.

"Enakkum eng'aathukku poga pidikala dha. Aana enna seiradhu poi dhane aaganu? Naan anga illa'nu mattum therinjaa avlodha"

(I don't like going to my house either. But what can I do? I have to go, right? If they know I'm not there, that's it)

She blabbered on, and I smiled, gently tucking the strands of hair behind her ear, curling them around my fingers. But before I could respond, the room fell into darkness as the power went off, leaving us in the pitch-black room. 

And, she whispered in the most husky voice, making my heart skip a beat, igniting a surge of desire within me,

"Ennaachu?" 

(What happened?)

In the dark room, with only the moonlight streaming through the window, I silently traced the outline of her face through my eyes, without responding to her. And, saw her lips parting, perhaps to say something, but it died within when I cupped her jaw gently in my palm, my eyes catching the rise and fall of her chest in the dim light. 

And, the soft moan that escaped her when I ran my thumb over her lower lip sent a shiver through her. I gently pushed it down, just enough to make her shudder, and I noticed her fists clenched tightly at her sides, her fingers pressing into the mattress.

"S...sir"

She whispered, her voice trembling.

I hummed softly in response, feeling her hard gulp against my palm, her breaths growing unsteady. But, she gasped, pulling her knees up when I gently tilted her head to her right, tracing the bridge of my nose along her cheek, taking in the intoxicating fragrance of her hair as it cascaded over her shoulder down to her waist. 

The scent alone sent my heartbeat racing, stirring a deep desire within me.

And, she shuddered and let out another soft moan, just as I moved my hand from her jaw to her shoulder, slowly brushing her hair aside. With my other hand, I gathered the soft strands, lifting them gently, letting them slide above her head and down onto the bed beneath me. The motion revealed her bare shoulder and collarbone, glowing softly in the moonlight that seeped into the room, highlighting her skin's beauty in the quiet, shadowed space around us.

Her already tilted face to her right, made things easier for me, and perhaps more worse for her as my hand slowly traced from her left shoulder to the right, and I couldn't help but study her face—eyes squeezed shut, lips pressed together, as if holding back something. 

Her skin felt smoother and softer beneath the roughness of my fingers and palm.

Letting my hand slide gently along her right arm, I leaned into her left shoulder, inhaling her fragrance, sharp and enticing.

A hard moan escaped her, almost as if encouraging me, and also seducing me to eat her alive.

Completely.

☃️☃️

The ache between my thighs deepened as well, I groaned softly and her head tilted back, releasing a breath as I placed gentle, lingering kisses along her neck, occasionally grazing her skin with a light bite, causing her to gasp. 

I intertwined my fingers with hers, pressing into the mattress, while my lips traveled down from her throat, to her jaw, to her chin. Pausing just above her quivering lips, I whispered softly, asking,

"I told you, didn't I?"

My voice was raspy, just as I'd expected, and her lips parted slightly, dried yet inviting.

"You've become my drug, Seetha"

Wrapping an arm around her waist, I drew her close swiftly, lifting her effortlessly until she was seated on my left thigh. Her soft gasp met my lips, captured within the kiss, as our mouths moved together with a hunger I'd never known in my thirty-three years—a fierce intensity that pulsed through every part of me.

Her right hand, resting on my shoulder, moved to tug at my hair, while the other grasped the fabric of my vest near my chest, her innocent touch making me groan as I gripped her bare waist beneath her saree, pulling her closer to me, and fisted the strands of her hair at her nape. 

She whimpered as I deepened the kiss, tilting her head back, tugging gently at her lower lip with my teeth before sliding my tongue inside her mouth, and the heat between us growing with every touch. Then, she moaned softly for the nth time as she settled more comfortably on my lap, her feet brushing the floor as I gently angled her face. 

Moments later, I found myself trailing kisses down her neck, before she shifted, sitting beside me on the bed, leaning back against one of the bedposts, her whimpers, her soft moans and my needy groans filling the air. 

The subtle permission she is conveying through her actions stirred both a need for control and a deepening desire within me.

But when the ache within me deepened to the worst, the desire rising with every breath she took, I pulled away, my body trembling with the intensity, her panting breaths, with her mouth parted, making it harder to maintain control. 

I averted my gaze from her, trying desperately to fight the overwhelming urge threatening to consume me, pushing away the word control from my mind.

☃️☃️

After giving ourselves a moment to compose, I looked at her, who is still leaning back against the bedpost, her breath shallow, sweat glistening on her skin, her knees were drawn up to her chest, and her hands were hidden behind her legs. 

But, a small smile tugged at the corner of my lips, seeing her disheveled state, a result of the moments we shared. Then, I glanced down at her feet, noticing her toes curled slightly.

So, gently placed my hand on them, I gave them a soft squeeze.

She jerked and looked at me, but in that instant, my heart seemed to stop as I saw the tears shimmering in her eyes.

"Seetha..."

I moved closer, gently lifting her feet and placing them on my lap despite her attempts to pull away from my grasp. With my other hand, I cupped her cheek softly.

"Seetha... Your eyes are scaring me"

I whispered, my voice filled with concern, unable to ignore the sight of her tears and the heavy silence surrounding her. Her eyes, unblinking, seemed to pierce into me.

"Seetha, edhaadhu sollu, ma"

(Say something)

She placed her hand gently over mine, the one cupping her cheek, and murmured,

"Bayama irukku..."

(I'm scared)

Her words, filled the quiet room, and I looked at her, taken aback.

"You don't trust me?" 

I asked softly, searching her eyes.

She shook her head, and with a slight tremble in her voice, said,

"Nekku ungamela bayam illai. Nammala nenachu bayamaa irukku"

(I am not scared of you. I am just scared of us)

I exhaled a breath of relief, cradling her face gently in my hands as I murmured, 

"You don't have to"

She gulped hard, her gaze locked with mine, and I gently wiped away the tears that had rolled down her cheeks, one by one.

"You. Don't. Have. to... Purunjadhaa?"

(Do you understand?)

I said, each word slow and reassuring, my hands gently brushing away the remaining tears from her cheeks, making sure she felt the warmth of my touch.

And her lips curved up as she kneeled on the bed and jumped into my arms, wrapping her arms tightly around my neck. I chuckled and hugged her back—I didn't know how many times I had done this today.

Holding her close, with my hands around her, I heard her whisper,

"I love you"

I breathed in her fragrance from her neck, now mixed with my cologne, making me shake my head with a smile. I held her in my embrace for a few more moments, savoring the closeness, before glancing at my wall-clock, which showed the time as almost 2 A.M. So, I slowly, moved my lips to her ear and murmured,

"Rendu mani aaga pogudhu, Seetha. Veetukku polayaa?"

(It's almost 2 o'clock, Seetha. Aren't you going back home?)

I felt her shake her head against my shoulder. I smiled, suppressing a laugh, and whispered a soft "okay" before tightening my arms around her. But she yelped and straightened up, making me chuckle.

"Rendu mani'na sonnel?"

(Did you just say it's 2 o'clock?)

I bit my lips, then said,

"Illaye. Nee vaa. You were so busy inhaling me, right? Vaa..."

(No. You come. You were so busy inhaling me, right? Come..)

I pulled her closer and hugged her again, but she wriggled free, pressing my hands against my thighs along with hers, stopping me. She looked at me with a serious expression and said,

"Amma, appa kandu puduchaa avlodha"

(If Amma and Appa find out, I'm finished)

"Paravala, paathukalaa.. ippo vaa.."

(It's okay. I'll take care of that. Now, you come to me..)

I pulled her back into a hug, but she clicked her tongue and whined, trying to push me away as she attempted to jump off the bed. However, I quickly grabbed her hips, stopping her from leaving.

"Enga odra?"

(Where are you trying to escape to?)

I gritted my teeth, my words laced with a smirk, as she whined,

"Aiyo vidungo'nah"

(Leave me'nah)

"Anna'va naan unakku? Mmm?"

(Am I your brother? Mmm?)

She still tried to wriggle and push my hands away from her waist but said,

"Abachaaram'ah pesaadhel"

(Don't speak like a fool)

I laughed as I slid my hands under her, lifting her effortlessly. Her butt cheeks perfectly fit into my palms, her eyes widening as she gripped my shoulders.

Her legs twisted behind her, and her knees pressed gently against my midriff.

"Enna panneetu irukkel?"

(What are you doing?)

"Thookeetu irukken, ma. Nee nalla jammu'nu dhane utkaandhirukka?"

(I'm just lifting you, you know. You're sitting so comfortably, aren't you?)

I teased her. She gasped.

"Achacho. Perumaal paathaa enna nenaippaa? Enna vidungo"

(Achacho. What would Lord Perumal think? Leave me)

"Perumal yedhukku di namma bedroom'ku varaaru?"

(Why would Lord Perumal come to our bedroom?)

I gripped her, gently jerking her up a little to steady her, holding her securely in place. 

She blushed, lowering her gaze, which only made me smile at her cuteness.

After making sure she was balanced against the wall, I asked softly, 

"Do you love me, Seetha?"

She lifted her gaze to meet mine, and without hesitation, she replied, 

"Aama. I love you, professor"

I chuckled at her hurried words, and let out a breath, trying to steady myself, before I gently set her back on her feet. 

Then, my lips found her forehead first, placing a tender kiss there, followed by a soft press against her hairline. And, guiding her over to my mother's photo, I whispered,

"Happy new year, ma"

My right hand traced the outline of the photo, lingering on the frame of my mother's image, while my left arm wrapped around Seetha's shoulders.

I felt her arms gently loop around my bicep, her weight resting against it. Looking down, I saw Seetha had hooked her arms with mine, her cheek pressed softly against my arm making me smile.

The presence of Seetha next to me was a feeling I hadn't anticipated, yet it felt like something I'd longed for without realizing.

"Happy New year, ma"

I heard her whisper, imitating my tone, and I chuckled softly, asking,

"Yethana dhadava solluva?"

(How many times will you say?)

She looked up at me with a playful grin, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she said,

"Appo thaniyaa dhane sonnen? Ippo ungakooda ninnu soldren"

(Then, I said it alone, right? Now, I'll say it along with you)

She spoke, watching me rest her chin on my bicep, and I leaned in, placing a soft kiss on her hairline. As I pulled back with a smile, my gaze shifted to Amma, who was smiling at us.

For the first time, her smile seemed to radiate happiness, not the sadness from the struggles of her past.

After standing there for a moment, I turned around, hearing a faint sound of someone wincing,

"Aiyo, perumaaley"

Seetha limped and sat on the bed, holding her foot. A frown appeared in my forehead as I quickly rushed toward her, concern washing over me. 

"Seetha, ennaachu?"

(Seetha, what happened?) 

I asked, kneeling down beside her to gently take her foot in my hands.

"Onnula yedhulaye iduchukutten. Nagarunga.."

(I hit something on one of my legs. It's nothing. Move..)

She kneeled down to pull out something from under the bed.

My amma's letter bag!

I gulped as she asked,

"Enna bag idhu?"

(What's this bag?)

"Adh..adhula enga amma eludhuna letters'laa irukkum, ma. Adha vidu endhiri"

(Th..That... inside that bag are my amma's letters, Seetha. Leave it. Stand up)

I tried to lift her by holding her elbow, but she swatted my hand away, pulling the bag out and dragging it to the bed. She opened it.

"Seetha..."

I quickly took the bag from her and placed it back on the bed, turning to face her. She gave me a sharp, squinted look like a cat. I chuckled and wrapped my arm around her waist, pulling her close. But she wriggled, pushing me away with surprising strength. So, I caught her wrist, stopping her.

"Iru di. Enna Ippo?"

(Wait, dear. What do you want now?)

She twisted her lips, but I could see the faint blush coloring her cheeks. However, she shook her head, glared at me, and asked,

"Enna adhu? Yen enna paaka vida maatenguringa?"

(What's that? Why aren't you letting me look at it?)

But I tucked her hair behind her ears and cupped her cheeks gently, whispering,

"Inniku romba azhaga irukka"

(You look very beautiful today)

She wetted her lower lip and bit it gently between her teeth, her gaze lowering.

"Inniku nee enna nenachiyaa?"

(Did you think about me today?)

She lifted her heavy eyelashes, her gaze locking with mine, as I continued,

"Naan inniku unna mattum dha nenachuttu irundhen"

(I've been thinking about you all day today)

She chuckled and playfully pushed me away, but I tightened my hold on her waist, pulling her back towards me. She sighed heavily, then wrapped her arms around my neck, standing on her toes. I smiled, leaning in close so our noses brushed against each other.

But then she asked, 

"Was there anyone else in your past?"

I narrowed my brows, unsure of what she meant.

"Naan first illa?"

(I'm not your first?)

"Haan?"

"Avangaloda memories edhaadhu andha bag'le vachirukkinglaa? Adhaa nekku kaamikka maatengure'laa?"

(Did you keep any memories of them in that bag? You're not going to show me, are you?)

Eeshwaraa!

(God!)

I straightened my face, exhaling sharply, but before I could say anything, she tugged my vest straps, pulling my face down to hers.

"Sollunga. Adhunaala dhane enna pakka vida maatenguringlaa?"

(Tell me. Is that why you're not letting me look at it?)

She asked me again and as I grabbed her waist firmly on both sides and pulled her closer, our foreheads gently crashing together, I said,

"Ini ipdi kekkaadha"

(Don't ask me again like this)

"Epdi?"

(Like what?)

"Innoruthar irukkaangalaa'nu"

(Like, is there anyone else in my life)

"Naan irundhaangalaa'nu dha ketten"

(I asked if anyone 'was' there in your life)

"Okay. Irundhaangalaa'nu kekkaadha"

(Okay. Don't ask me like that)

"Okay"

She accepted, and I sat on the bed, pulling her close to my chest with my arm around her shoulder.

"That was my mother's" 

I said softly.

"Appo yen naan paaka koodaadhu?"

(Then why I shouldn't see it?)

"Avangaloda ellaa kashtamum adhula eludheerpaanga, ma"

(She wrote all her pain in that, ma)

"Naan paakanu"

(I want to look at it)

She blinked at me. I sighed, and with a grin, she took the bag, sitting closely beside me. She opened it and began reading the letters one by one while I rested my face against her neck, my arms wrapped tightly around her waist.

Suddenly, with a jolt, I snapped my eyes open and sat up from the bed with a thud. Realizing, the room was empty. I was alone.

"Seetha?"

I muttered, rising to my feet. I moved towards the door and opened it, but just before I could step out, I froze in my tracks as I heard Seetha's voice—her shout, actually.

"Inga naan enna pandren'ngradhu pretchana illa. Indha letters ellaame dha ippo irukka pretchana. Yen apdi panninga? Jaya ma've enna panninga neenga? Idha neenga inniku sollaama naan indha edatha vittu nagara poradhu illa"

(The issue isn't what I'm doing here. The issue is with these letters, that's all. Why did you do this? What did you do to Jaya ma? I won't leave this place without knowing exactly what happened)

I gulped and moved quietly behind the wall that separated the living room. My eyes fell on the scene in front of me—the bag of my mother's letters resting on the teapoy between the couch, and Seetha standing there, staring at the old man in front of her. He looked shocked.

Meanwhile, Seetha's hands were tightly fisted at her sides, her body trembling with the rage she was barely holding in.

"Ennaala solla mudiyaadhu, ma"

(I can't explain this, ma)

The old man said.

"Adhaa yen? Naan yedho chinna vishyamaa irukkum'nu nenachu dha, avarkittaye kaettu therinjukalaa'nu ivlo naal nenachuttu irundhen. Aana idhu ivlo periya vishyamaa irukkum'nu naan en kanavula kooda nenachu paakala. Jaya ma indha letters fullaaa neenga avangalukku panna torture pathi dha eludheerkaanga. Unga wife'ku, paiyanukku neenga badhil sollala. Aana enakku ippo neenga solli dha aaganum. Illanaa naan ingerndhu oru step eduthu vakka maaten. Indha 50 letter kum neenga dha badhil sollanum. Solli dha aaganum"

(What's that? I thought it was just something small, something I could ask him about and figure out. I never imagined it would be something so big. Jaya, ma, these letters, they are all about the torture you put her through. You didn't give any answer to your wife or your son. But now, you have to tell me. Otherwise, I won't take a single step forward from here. You need to answer for these 50 letters)

She yelled, her voice burning with anger, but he sat down heavily on the couch, removing his glasses and rubbing his face, as if trying to block out the tension thickening in the room.

"Sollunga, mama. Naan ungakitta dha kaettutu irukken. Indha 50 letters'kum badhil sollunga enakku, ippove"

(Tell me, Mama. I've been asking you. Answer me about these 50 letters)

He lifted his face, his eyes filled with tears, and spoke,

"Unkitta naan en wife mela vachirundha kadhal poi'ngradha solla 50 letters irukkunaa, enkitta enga kadhal evlo unmaiyaanadhu'nu nirubikka 500 letters'kum mela irukku. Adha paathaa nee badhil solluviyaa enakku?"

(If you have 50 letters that talk about the fake love I showed my wife, I also have more than 500 letters that prove how real my love for her is. If you see that, will you answer me?)

I frowned, and so did she, as she asked,

"Purila?"

(I can't understand you?)

He let out a deep sigh, stood up, and walked into his room. I stayed still, my eyes locked on Seetha, who was about to turn in my direction. Quickly, I stepped behind the wall.

I didn't want her to see me. 

I needed to understand the truth behind everything that had been unfolding in my life over the years.

I needed to know why Amma had made that decision.

And, when I peered from behind the wall again, I saw the fiery old man flip the bag upside down, shaking it until its contents fell out.

Letters dropped one by one onto the floor, scattering across the couches, teapoy, and mats. When it was all done, he tossed the bag aside and turned to Seetha, saying,

"Paaru.... Idhellaaa en Jaya enakkaaga eludhunadhu. Eduthu paaru..."

(Look... All of this, Jaya wrote for me. Take a look..)

But Seetha stared at the letters in shock, and I did the same. 

What the hell is going on here?

**********

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

I'm sorry for the delay in the update. I've been sick for the past one week :(

The next chapter will dive into a flashback in Aayush's father's pov.

And, you've reading a continuous long chapters from me, right? But the vote count stays around the same—around 390 or 400—whether the chapters are long or short. Ennanga nyaayam idhu? Chey, I'm very disappointed.

So, the target now is 470+ votes, and I'll give you the update as soon as we hit that goal!

And now, someone will come and say, "Neengale eppavaadhu dha update tharinga. Aana vote mattum naanga podanumaa?". And my reply for them will be, "Long chapters+translation type panni paarunga, pa appo theriyum" 😮‍💨

Jokes apart, thank you so much to everyone who has been voting, commenting, and supporting me all along. I'm truly grateful 💜🧿🫂

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