Hello 😀

I just got back home, guys. But here I am, keeping my promise with the next long chapter for you all 💕

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa🚴‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Aayush

When they left, almost dragging her away from me, it felt as if my heart had been split in two.

So, this is how it feels when your heart shatters!

I thought, the ache unbearable.

Appa placed a steadying hand on my shoulder and offered me a faint smile-a gesture that only deepened the cracks in my heart.

"Vaa, Aayush. Everything has to come to an end, right? Come on..."

He said softly, his voice carrying an unbearable weight of acceptance, as he began walking ahead, leaving me frozen beside the police station, staring at the path she had disappeared.

Her parents had taken her away, but not before she had cast me one last, yearning look that burned into my soul.

In that moment, I understood what it truly meant to have someone close to your heart look at you with longing-a gaze so powerful it could make your heart race, skip a beat, and leave you gasping for breath.

Lost in my thoughts, I barely registered Appa returning to my side, his voice just a blur in the background. It wasn't until he shook me gently but firmly that I snapped out of my daze, looking up to meet his concerned eyes.

But, before he could utter another word, I flung my arms around his shoulders, holding him tightly as tears flowed freely, and my sobs muffled against his embrace.

The two days I spent trying to make her feel special now felt like a blur, overshadowed by everything else. But I still couldn't forget the night of the first day-it still felt rushed and overwhelming even now.

That night, I rode my bike aimlessly through the streets of Ooty, my mind fixed on one thing, that is,

To make her feel cherished, free from the weight of our past.

At some point, I even stopped in front of her house, debating whether to go in or not. But after a long pause, I decided against it.

I rode to the farthest corner of Kinnakorai and found myself sitting on the steps of an old church, completely drained-mentally and emotionally.

Her words echoed in my head, and yes, they hurt deeply.

But what hurt more was the realization that those were the same words I had once thrown at her.

Thinking about the pain I must have caused her tore me apart. And yet, despite it all, she had chosen me, again and again. That thought alone forced me to take deep breaths, grounding myself, fighting against the urge to break down completely.

It was then that I heard Kamali's voice before me. I glanced up at her and managed a faint smile. But, without a word, she sat next to me, her presence quiet but comforting. After a moment, she started sharing what was happening at Seetha's house.

Her words hit me like a thunderbolt. My jaw clenched, and my fists tightened as I realized Seetha's parents were planning to marry her off to someone else without even asking for her consent. My blood boiled with rage.

At that instant, I made a decision-I would make Seetha mine immediately. But first, I needed her to truly understand the depth of my love for her, how unbreakable and unchanging it was.

For the first time, I told Kamali about my feelings for her friend Seetha. I hesitated, worried she might think it was wrong or inappropriate for me to love and want to marry my student. But instead, she squealed with excitement.

And she immediately reached for her phone, ready to call Seetha and share the news, but I stopped her just in time.

"Yen, sir? Maami romba sandhosha paduvaa.."

(Why, sir? Maami will be so happy)

She whined at me. I smiled and replied,

"I want to surprise her, Kamali. She's been through a lot for me. Now, I want her to feel special just before we start our relationship officially"

She smiled at me and agreed, and I mentioned that I had some plans in mind. As I turned to leave to start making arrangements for my proposal, Kamali stopped me and asked if she could help.

I hesitated for a moment before agreeing, and together, we brainstormed the next morning in the church. Finally, we came up with the idea of a candlelight dinner combined with a proposal setup.

Wanting something unique and memorable, I visited several event companies before settling on a design-a massive heart made of roses, set against the backdrop of a dark sky atop a mountain.

Initially, I wanted purple roses, but they suggested that purple might not stand out against the dark backdrop and recommended pink instead. However, I eventually chose red roses, confident they would convey my emotions perfectly. I paid the advance, and they started the work immediately.

I was incredibly tense and nervous, wondering if she would like it, if I could meet her expectations, if it might end up too cringe, or if it would exceed her expectations.

But, in the middle of all the preparations, the unexpected happened-the main worker, responsible for pinning the roses into the heart shape, had an emergency and had to leave, which only increased my anxiety.

The others apologized, explaining that there were no backups available since it was the first week of the new year, a busy and chaotic time for them. Before they could offer to return my advance payment, I interrupted and asked if I could do the work myself.

At first, they refused, worried I might not manage it, but I insisted saying,

"Enakku vera vali theriyala, anna. I have to make it quick. Yerkanave romba naal waste panneeten"

(I don't know what else to do, brother. I have to make it quick. I've already wasted so many days)

I wasn't going to let anything ruin my plan for Seetha.

They agreed with a smile, and some of them praised me, saying that my girlfriend was so lucky to have me. A few of the elder workers even prayed that we would live together forever. I thanked them, and then, for the entire night, without a single wink of sleep, I worked tirelessly, pinning each rose into place with my own hands.

This was for her-for my Seetha-and I poured every ounce of my energy into it.

The next morning, Kamali showed up, walking back and forth, ranting about how Charan was furious with her for not answering his calls or meeting him. I chuckled at her antics and told her to go patch things up with him. But she shook her head, determined to stay and help, as she had promised. So, I insisted firmly, and only then did she leave, halfheartedly.

After that, I continued supervising and setting up the arrangements until everything was perfect. With everything ready, I planned to call Seetha and invite her to the setup that evening, rubbing my hands to shake off the nervousness. But when I called her, she didn't answer.

A sense of unease crept in when the call went unanswered, even after several attempts. So, I reached out to Kamali, who informed me that Seetha and her family were out shopping-for her and that curly-haired man's wedding.

Anger and hurt surged through me.

Fuck him! Bastard!

Without a second thought, I jumped on my bike, spun the back wheel around with a screech, and rode straight to the store Kamali had mentioned.

I shoved my phone and bike key into the back pockets of my jeans and climbed the stairs, taking two steps at a time. And, when I reached the saree section, I found her lost in thought, giving faint smiles to those around her.

However, she looked gorgeous in her brown and white blended saree. Yet, despite the allure, it was clear from her expression that she wasn't ready for any wedding.

I watched her from a distance, but my fists clenched when I saw that curly-haired man standing beside her, leaning against the wall near the mirror, watching her.

But, when she headed into the trial room with her mother, I paused for a moment before quietly placing the gift I had bought for her under an empty counter.

I made sure her mother had left before I approached.

After pushing her boundaries and making it clear that I was the one who should occupy her thoughts, her heart, her body and her future, I teased her about changing her dress in front of me.

She became angry, and demanding that I should leave. But despite her anger, I couldn't help but notice how her flushed face, a mix of frustration and embarrassment, affected me.

However, she then made a bold move, keeping her dignity intact, by draping her saree over the blouse she had already worn. I bit my lip, trying to suppress a smirk, as I watched her elegantly wrap the saree around her curvy body, the smooth fabric falling gracefully.

And, after some playful teasing and a bit of dramatic flair outside the trial room, I finally left-but not before making sure her marriage to that man would be stopped.

Feeling a flicker of hope, I returned to the setup, ready to call her again. But then the event coordinators informed me that the setup was only available until the evening, after which the rates would increase significantly.

Kamali was trying her best to bargain for a couple more hours, but they wouldn't budge.

Frustrated and dejected, I sat on the stage in front of the heart-shaped roses.

I couldn't help but feel like I had failed-again-to make her feel special.

Seeing my mood, Kamali joined me, sitting quietly before offering a suggestion,

"Why not make a video?"

She said. I frowned.

She smiled and continued,

"Indha setup ellaam yen namma waste pannanu? Phone'le unga confession'eh record panni avalukku send pannunga, sir"

(Why let this beautiful setup go to waste? Record your confession and send it to her, sir)

But I hesitated at first, unsure as I am not the camera person. However, Kamali insisted, encouraging me to speak from the heart. After a moment of thoughts, I agreed. I asked everyone to step aside, stood before the camera, and let my emotions take over, confessing everything that was on my mind.

Once I was done, I sent the video to Seetha in the final moments before the setup's time ended. After dropping Kamali at her homestay, I hurried home, nerves gnawing at me. I waited anxiously for her response, pacing at the entrance of my house, ignoring Appa's repeated calls to come inside and avoid standing in the rain.

At 8 o'clock, I glanced at my phone—she had seen the message.

My heart pounded wildly as I stood there, rain drenching me.

Then, everything after that moment-the way I twirled her in my arms, the way she fit perfectly against me, her laughter mingling with mine-was beyond anything I could have ever dreamed.

She wasn't just love; she was, is, and will always be my love, forever.

Standing on the terrace, I gazed at the moon, thoughts of those past two days swirling in my mind.

The memories felt like whispers in the night air-haunting yet comforting.

With a deep breath and a flicker of hope, I turned towards her house, searching for some sign of her. But it was dark. No lights were on.

A frown crept onto my face as unease started to settle in. I rushed to my room, my bed, where my phone lay, picked it up, and dialed her number.

But, the sound of the automated response-switched off-made my heart sink.

Worry clawed at my chest, and an unbearable sense of loss started to grow within me. My hands trembled as my gaze shifted to the nearby beer bottle.

My fingers twitched, aching to grab it and drown in its numbing embrace. But just as I reached for it, my eyes landed on the chart papers she had made for me, still stuck to the wall.

Her words, her effort, her care-they seemed to scream louder than my pain.

I pulled back my hand, leaned against the wall, and let my head fall beneath my mother's framed photo. My gaze fixed on those handwritten notes she had left me, and something inside me shattered.

Tears began to roll down, unbidden, from the corners of my closed eyes.

Am I going to lose her?

The question echoed relentlessly in my mind.

It was killing me alive-her absence, my overthinking, and the weight of everything between us.

I sat there, tears mixing with the exhaustion of the past few days. At some point, I must have fallen asleep, the fight inside me calming for a while because of how tired I was.

Then, when I opened my eyes, I found myself still lying on the floor. A pillow was tucked under my head, and a blanket was draped over me. I tossed the blanket aside and reached for my phone, desperate to check for any sign from her-a call, a message, even a missed call.

But there was nothing.

Anger bubbled up inside me, hot and relentless. With a frustrated growl, I threw the phone onto the couch, threw the blanket away, and stormed into the restroom. Stripping off my clothes, I stepped into the shower. The cold water hit my skin, but it did little to cool the fire raging inside me.

Leaning forward, I pressed my palms against the tiled wall, lowered my head, eyes squeezed shut in frustration.

Is she in a situation where she can't even call me, or is she deliberately ignoring me?

But, why would she ignore me?

I hadn't done anything wrong, had I? Nothing that could justify this silence. But then again, what could she be dealing with that would stop her from sending even a single message to me?

The questions swirled in my head like a relentless storm as the water washed over me. With a sigh, I brushed back the hair falling on my forehead, finished my shower, dried off, and wrapped a towel around my waist.

Stepping out of the restroom, I slipped into a pair of light grey jeans and started buttoning up an olive-green shirt.

That's when Elango stormed in, yelling at the top of his lungs,

"Dei, macha!!!"

I sighed, rolling my eyes at his dramatic entrance.

"Yen da ipdi loosu maadhiri kathura? Yerkanave thala vali'le irukken. Football velaada polaamaa?"

(Why are you behaving so crazy like this? My head is really killing me. Shall we go out and play some football?)

I asked, genuinely wanting some fresh air or a distraction to escape from the overwhelming events happening in my life for the first time like this.

But, Elango raised a hand, gesturing as if I were the crazy one.

"Loosaa da nee? Naane nee enna nelamai le iruka'nu paathuttu polaa'nu padhattathoda vandhaa, nee enna da'naa football velaada polaamaa'nu cool'ah kekura?"

(Are you crazy? I came all the way here worried about what state you're in, and you're casually asking if we should go play football?)

Frowning, I left the top two buttons of my shirt undone and picked up the locket from the table, slipping it on while facing the mirror.

"Yen? appa nethu enna nadandhadhu sonnaaraa? Adha kekuriyaa?"

(Why? Did Dad tell you what happened yesterday? Is that why you're asking?)

Elango squinted at me, confused.

"Nethu enna?"

(Yesterday? What happened?)

I turned to him, frowning harder, stopping mid-motion as I ruffled my hair.

"Appo nee yedha pathi pesura?"

(Then what are you talking about?)

He rolled his eyes and huffed dramatically, throwing his hands in the air.

"Enna da nee ipdi irukka?"

(Why are you like this, dude!?)

My frown deepened as I asked,

"Enna naaye? yedha pathi pesura? Clear'ah sollu"

(What's with you? And, what are you talking about? Speak clearly)

"Dei! Namma Charan'oda WhatsApp status paathiyaa illayaa nee?"

(Hey! Haven't you seen Charan's WhatsApp status?)

He asked with the same frustration.

I faced him with knitted brows.

"Charan'ah? Illaye. Yen? Ennaachu? Avan nalla dhane irukkaan?"

(Charan? No, why? What happened? Is he alright?)

I asked, a bit concerned about where this was going.

"Avan'laa nalla dhaan irukkaan. Aana nee dha andha status paathaa nalla illaama poiduva"

(He's doing fine. But if you look at that status, it's definitely not going to end well for you)

That really made me tense, and I started yelling at him,

"Deii! Yedhuvume direct'ah enna nu solla maatiyaa? Nee indirect'aah solli naan adha decode panni purinjukka nee enna periya ivanaa da?"

(Hey! Why can't you just say what you mean directly? Instead, you're saying it indirectly, and I have to decode it and understand. What, are you a big shot?)

I snapped, growing impatient with his cryptic tone.

"Idhellaa nee sollaadha. Modhala phone eduthu Charan'oda whatsapp status paaru"

(You don't talk to me like this. First, pick up the phone and check Charan's WhatsApp status)

With a hard sigh, I grabbed my phone, unlocked it, turned on the internet connection, and opened WhatsApp. Then, navigating to Charan's status, I clicked on it.

The moment the image loaded, I gasped.

Seetha was sitting beside Charan, her hands adorned with mehndi, while he took a selfie of them smiling widely. The caption underneath read,

"Korangu is going to get married soon. #PaavamGroom"

The sight of her radiant smile and the meaning behind the caption made my chest tighten. My vision blurred with anger as I glared at the screen.

Then, gritting my teeth, I shoved the phone into my pocket and stormed out.

On the ground floor, I grabbed the car keys. Elango followed, blabbering something I couldn't process. His voice was drowned out by the pounding in my ears. But, my heart was racing faster than I thought possible, and my mind was fixed on one thing, that is,

Reaching her as soon as possible!

I jumped into the car, Elango hopping into the passenger seat, still trying to say something, but his words faded into the background. My grip on the steering wheel tightened, my eyes glued to the road ahead as the chaos in my head grew louder with every passing second.

After five hours of travel, I finally stopped the car in front of the house. The entrance was adorned with vibrant flower decorations, and the sight made my blood boil.

Gripping the steering wheel tightly, I cursed under my breath and turned to my left and saw the 'case' who had tagged along with me-Elango-sleeping peacefully.

His head was tilted back, mouth wide open like he was auditioning for a snoring competition.

The anger that had been building up inside me needed to be released, and before I could think twice, I slapped his thigh hard.

"Deii eruma maadu! Yen da ipdi adikira?"

(Hey, you idiot! Why did you hit me like this?)

He yelped in pain, waking up with a start.

I didn't bother answering, just shot him a glare. Grabbing my phone, I pushed open the door and stepped outside. The scene before me was a whirlwind of activity-people hurrying around, making preparations for what I assumed was the wedding.

Elango followed, stretching with exaggerated drama, his hands resting on his waist. He squinted at the house, then turned to me.

"Yaaru veedu macha idhu?"

(Who's house is this, man?)

"Seetha"

I replied, still staring at the busy house and the relatives roaming around.

"Seetha'va?"

He asked in a shock.

"Aama"

(Yes)

I said curtly, my eyes landing on her father, who was animatedly conversing with a group of men.

"Oh! Kalyanatha paathuttu polaa'nu vandhirukomaa?"

(Oh! Are we here to attend the wedding?)

He asked with a happy tone.

I shook my head, my gaze fixed ahead.

"Illa. Kalyanatha nirutha vandhirukko"

(No. We are here to stop the wedding)

I replied coldly and started walking forward.

Behind me, I heard him gasp audibly.

Then, realizing the meaning of my words, he rushed after me, shouting.

"Deii, deii, deii, deii! Enga da pora?"

(Hey, hey, hey, hey! Where are you going?)

"Veetukulla. Maybe"

(Inside the house. Maybe)

"Yedhukku?"

(For what?)

"Adha sonnane, kalyanatha nirutha poren'nu"

(Didn't I tell you that I'm going to stop the wedding?)

I asked as I walked forward quickly, but,

"Dei, macha!"

He yelled, grabbing my wrist to stop me.

I turned to face him, glaring.

"Enna da?"

(What's wrong, dude?)

"Macha, idhu nee nenaikkura maadhiri saadhaarna vishayam illa da!"

(Macha, this is not something you think it is, it's not a simple matter!)

His voice was laced with urgency.

"Aal aalukku rendu anda size'le iruppaanunga. Iyer aathu adi ellaam idi maadhiri irukkum da, maapla!"

(Everyone's going to be huge. The smacks from the Iyer family will be more powerful than thunder, dude!)

I shook my head, brushing off his hand from my wrist.

"Adhukku?"

(So?)

I asked, striding forward while rolling up my left sleeve with my right hand, determination coursing through me.

Elango trailed behind me, whining in frustration.

"Enna da adhukku'nu kekura? Seri.. Poravan nee mattum poga vendiyadhu dhane? Enna yen da kooptu vandha?"

(How could you ask like that? Fine... if you're coming here, why can't you go alone? Why did you bring me along?)

I shot him a look over my shoulder, rolling up my right sleeve.

"Naan enga kooptu vandhen? Nee dha vandha"

(I didn't bring you here. You came on your own)

"Oh, naan dha vandhanaa? Naane en thalaila mannalli pottukuttanaa?"

(Oh, I came, did I? Am I the one who tied myself up and dragged myself here?)

He groaned dramatically.

While I said flatly,

"Aama"

(Yes)

"Edheyy!"

(What!?)

His gasp of disbelief made me smirk slightly, but I didn't slow down.

Reaching the house, I grabbed the doorframe and peeked inside. Her parents were chatting with relatives in the left corner, but she was nowhere to be seen. Sighing, I stepped out of my slippers and entered the house.

Elango caught up to me and grabbed my wrist again.

"Please, da. Poidlaam"

(Let's go)

He pleaded.

But, I turned and gave him a glare so sharp it made him back off immediately. Shrugging off his hold, I navigated through the crowd of relatives scattered around the house. I checked the first room on the right, which was partially open, but it was empty. Frustrated, I moved to the next door, which was locked from inside.

Letting out an exasperated sigh, I scanned the hall again and finally spotted a familiar figure— a lean, tall guy filming the family members who were cracking jokes.

Without a second thought, I moved towards him, slipped my arm around his neck from behind, and dragged him behind one of the walls.

He turned around, startled, but his surprise quickly morphed into a wide smile.

"Boss! Neenga enga inga?"

(What are you doing here?)

"Adha vidu"

(Leave that)

I said, brushing off his question.

"Seetha enga?"

(Where is Seetha?)

"Adhu yedhukku ungalukku? College'le dhaane neenga en thalaivi oda professor? Inga enna pandringa?"

(Why does it matter to you? Aren't you my queen's professor just in college? What are you doing here?)

He asked, his eyes narrowing as he looked me up and down.

I rubbed my nape in frustration, trying to come up with a convincing excuse.

"Illa... oru assignment kuduthirundhen. Mudikaama vandhuttaanga. Adha paathu enna'nu kaettutu pola'nu vandhen"

(No... I had given an assignment. She came without finishing it. I thought I could come and ask about it directly to her)

He raised an eyebrow, skeptical.

"Aana avanga dha college muduchuttaanga'lae? College muduchaa kooda assignment kudupping'laa?"

(But have they even finished college? Can you really give an assignment after they've already finished college?)

"Aama"

(Yes)

I snapped, my patience wearing thin.

"Nee sollu, ava enga?"

(Now, tell me where is she)

"Illa... ungala paathaa enakku sandhegamaa irukku. Naan solla maaten"

(No... I sense something is wrong about you when I see you. So, I won't say anything)

He said with a smirk and turned to leave.

But, before he could walk away, I grabbed his neck again from behind and whispered harshly,

"Ippo nee solla poriyaa illayaa?"

(Are you going to say it now or not?)

His eyes widened in fear, but before he could respond, a voice called out.

"Sakthi thambi!"

He straightened immediately, flashing a nervous smile.

"Ahn. Dho, varen, maami!"

(I'm coming, aunty!)

I quickly let him go and hid behind the wall as Seetha's mother approached. He walked up to her, engaging in casual conversation, while I stayed hidden, heart pounding. As soon as she walked away, I heaved a sigh of relief and darted toward the stairs.

I silently climbed up, ensuring I wasn't spotted. And, a faint giggles floated from the farthest room on the floor. My heart raced as I moved closer to the source.

Just as I reached the door and prepared to open it, it swung open on its own.

I quickly ducked behind the pillar as a group of women exited the room, laughing and chatting.

And my breath hitched when I saw her.

Seetha.

She stepped out, radiant as ever, draped in a honey-colored saree that clung perfectly to her form, the fabric pinned neatly over her shoulder. Her face glowed with a happiness that both irked and mesmerized me.

She walked past the pillar I was hiding behind, looking like a goddess who had descended from the heavens, her smile lighting up the entire house. I felt an overwhelming urge to step out-to startle her, surprise her, or even just see her reaction.

I wasn't sure what I wanted, but I knew I needed her to notice me.

But just as I was about to move, a firm grip closed around my wrist.

I spun around and gasped.

"Appa?"

My father stood there, his expression unreadable.

"Inga enna Aayush pandra?"

(What are you doing here, Aayush?)

Appa's voice rang with shock as he looked at me.

I stared back at him, equally taken aback.

"Neenga inga enna pa panneetu irukkinga?"

(What are 'you' doing here, appa?)

"Enna da ipdi kekura? Seetha'ku inniku kalyana nichayadhaartham. Naan illaama epdi? Ava enna epdi koopdaama iruppaa?"

(What are you asking? Today is Seetha's engagement. How can I not be here? How can she go ahead with it without inviting me?)

His words hit me like a brick wall. I stared at him, unable to respond. My mind was blank.

Dejected and utterly hurt, I couldn't find words.

Appa, oblivious to my turmoil, frowned at my appearance.

"Seri, idhu enna dress idhu? Kalyana veetukku vandhuttu rowdy maadhiri sutheetu irukka? Mudi ellaam paaru epdi irukku'nu.."

(Okay, what's with this dress? You've come to the wedding house dressed like a rowdy? Look at your hair, how is it even looking...)

He ran his fingers through my hair, trying to correct it.

But, I didn't react. I just kept staring at him, unblinking.

"Enna kanna apdi paakura?"

(Why are you looking at me like this, dear?)

He asked softly.

"Appa, neenga.."

(You..)

I began, but he cut me off.

"Vidu, Aayush. Yendha oru kaadhal kadhaikum oru mudivu'nu onnu irukku'le? Andha maadhiri nenachukalaa. Nee paatha'le? Seetha evlo sandhoshamaa irukkaa'nu? Ava sandhosham dhaane unakkum mukkiyam? Apro enna?"

(Leave it, Aayush. Don't you think every love story has an ending? Have you seen Seetha? How happy she is right now? Her happiness is what matters to you, right? Then what?)

I gulped, his words sinking in.

Yes, I wanted her to be happy-but not like this.

Not with someone else.

She should be happy beside me, for me and for us.

But the way she was smiling, could it be real?

Was someone forcing her?

Blackmailing her?

My mind raced with countless questions.

But, Appa shook me lightly, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Seri. Indha last room kulla ponee'naa cupboard'le irukka top shelf'le oru pattu veshti sattai vachirukken. Poi maatheetu vaa. Naan keela poren. Seekro vaa, seriyaa? Appa sonnaa kekanum, Aayush. Seekro vandhuru.."

(Okay. If you go into the last room, there's a silk dhothi and shirt in the top shelf of the cupboard. Go and take it. I'll head downstairs. Come quickly, alright? As Dad said, you need to listen, Aayush. Go and come soon)

"Ap.."

I started, but he patted my chest with a smile and walked away.

I clenched my jaw, frustration bubbling over. I punched the nearby pillar, ignoring the sharp pain that shot through my knuckles, and ran my fingers through my hair, desperately trying to think of a way to stop this madness.

As I paced for a few seconds with my mind blank, I noticed a group of young women at the corner of the corridor giggling and sneaking glances at me. Their blushing smiles only irritated me further. Rolling my eyes, I muttered a curse under my breath and stormed into the last room, slamming the door shut and locking it behind me.

Turning around, I realized it was the room Seetha had gotten ready in. It was a mess-clothes and cosmetic items scattered everywhere. Sighing, I moved to the cupboard, opened it, and pulled out the silk shirt and dhoti Appa had mentioned.

My mind was focused only on one thing, that is, I needed to find out who this groom was and stop my woman from marrying anyone else.

No way was this wedding going to happen.

I changed quickly, declining Elango's calls for what felt like the hundredth time. I wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. My emotions were on the verge of breaking through-either as tears or as rage directed at whoever dared to cross my path.

With my hair still messy, I rolled up my sleeves neatly and slipped my phone and wallet into the dhoti's pockets.

And, as I turned to leave, my eyes landed on something on the bed.

A straight line formed across my lips, quickly turning into a smirk as I laid eyes on it and an idea took shape in my mind.

Moving closer, I picked it up, tucked it into my pocket, and silently left the room.

Descending the stairs, I saw the relatives seated in two groups, the two families facing each other. I stood by a pillar, arms crossed, my eyes fixed on her.

The sight of her sitting there with her cousins, laughing and talking, her face glowing with joy-maybe even a hint of shyness-deeply hurt me.

A bitter thought crept in,

Had she cheated on me?

That smile, which I had always adored, now felt like a blade slicing through me.

Unable to bear it, I shifted my focus, scanning the room for the groom. But there was no sign of him-only Appa, standing in his place.

I frowned in confusion.

What was going on?

My gaze returned to her just as she seemed to glance my way-but she quickly looked away, almost as if avoiding me.

My frown deepened.

The priest, sitting between the two families, adjusted the mic in his hand. He began to speak, announcing the details of the marriage arrangements.

I leaned forward slightly, my heart pounding, as I waited to hear the name of the groom.

And then the priest said,

Shri Vinayaga nama:

(Sri Vinayaka Nama:)

Subha Lagna pathirrikkai

(Auspicious Lagna Patrika)

Thigadhi: Aani/Shubhakrith

(Month/Year: Aani/ Shobhakrith)

Naal: Vyaalakilamai

(Day: Thursday)

Neram: Kaalai 6 mani mudhal 7 mani varai

(Time: Morning from 6.00 to 7.00)

Anaivaradhu Anbum Aadharavum naadum nabargal:

(The persons to seek blessings and support from you all:)

Manamagal:

(Bride:)

Seetha

Shashtri matrum Anandhi Avargalin Pudhalvi

(Daughter of Shashtri and Anandhi.)

My heart beat raced.

Manamagan:

(Groom:)

Aayush Kumar

I gasped in shock, my eyes widening as I turned to look at her. But, she was staring at me already, her eyes glossed..

Paarthiv Raj matrum Jaya Avargalum Pudhalvar

(Son of Paarthiv Raj and Jaya.)

Ivargal thirumana mahothsavam,

Aani maadham, Shubhakrith Varudam, Vyaalakilamai, Kaalai 6 mani mudhal 7 mani varai Srirangam, Arulmigu Aranganadhar Swamy Aalaiyathil nadaipera ulladhu

(Their wedding celebration will take place on Aani month, Shobhakrith year, Thursday, from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam)

Idhanai iru kudumbangalin periyorgalum, uravinargalum inaindhu urudhi paduthi, nichayikka padugiradhu.

(This engagement is solemnized by the elders of both families.)

He closed the letter and smiled at the family while I gulped standing there looking at appa and Seetha and her parents alternatively who were really happy to the core while I was... fucking confused to the core!!!!

"Thatta maathikongo"

(Both the families can exchange the plates now)

I saw Appa turning his head towards me, a smile spreading across his face. He blinked his eyes and nodded, signaling for me to come closer.

I stared at Appa, but someone from behind shoved me forward. Turning around, I found Elango grinning widely at me.

Frowning, I turned back and walked towards the place where Appa was sitting. He pulled me down beside him, and I adjusted my dhoti as I sat, suddenly aware of everyone's eyes on me, which made me feel awkward.

But then, I lifted my gaze to look at Appa and her parents, exchanging plates with wide smiles. I felt out of place, unsure of what was happening or why. I glanced at Seetha, but she was clearly avoiding my gaze, with a nervous, shy smile, lowering her head that almost made me smile.

However, I quickly jerked myself out of the moment when Appa nudged me, and the priest began speaking,

"Ponnu, maapla maalai'eh maathinkongo"

(Now, the bride and groom can exchange the garlands)

I looked at appa.

"Po, Aayush"

(Go Aayush)

I looked at him with a nervous smile as I stood up, my heart racing. I saw Seetha rising from her place, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. We both stood there in the midst of the bustling crowd of relatives, the atmosphere growing more uncomfortable by the second.

Leaning down slightly to match her height, I made it easier for her to place the garland around my neck.

And, I whispered softly,

"You're dropdead gorgeous, my love"

She shyly lowered her head, allowing me to place the garland around her neck. As I did, my fingers brushed gently against her bare shoulders and the delicate skin at the nape of her neck.

I felt her stiffen slightly, and she quickly took a few steps back, retreating behind her father, her head lowered in an attempt to hide the flush creeping up her cheeks.

A smirk tugged at my lips as I stepped back, positioning myself beside my father, my hands tied behind my back, and my chin held high with quiet pride. I glanced over at her, noticing how she was glaring at Kamali and Charan, a blush creeping up her cheeks as she tried to hide the flutter of emotions beneath her calm exterior.

It made me feel like I had won some silent victory.

And, I couldn't help but admire her from top to toe. She was draped in a stunning purple and green saree, her long hair cascading over her left shoulder. But as I stared, I frowned-her hair, which usually stopped above her waist, now flowed well below it. It was clearly not her natural length.

I smiled to myself, biting my lower lip, clearing my throat as my father and her parents exchanged gifts-dresses, jewelry, and boxes of sweets.

I turned front, only to find her missing. My frown grew as I scanned the area, finally spotting her slipping behind the house with the group of women. I ran my fingers through my hair, and looked ahead to see that the crowd of relatives had thinned out, with only a few left, including my father and her parents, chatting casually and smiling.

I was about to make my way over to them, eager to find out what had been going on, but then the thought struck me-asking her would be much more satisfying.

Smirking, I decided to leave, but just as I turned, Elango and Charan appeared in front of me, blocking my path with grins plastered across their faces.

I rolled my eyes, and before they could say anything, I placed my hands on their cheeks, gently but firmly pushed them aside, and walked in the direction where I had seen her leave.

Each step toward her only deepened the irritation simmering inside me. Why hadn't she informed me earlier? What was all this drama about? Why the fake ignorance?

When I finally spotted her, standing there, leaning her back against the wall, with the group of young women gathered before her, listening intently to whatever she was saying animatedly.

Her hand idly swirled the edge of her long, artificial hair, and for a moment, I just stood there, watching her, unsure of what to feel as I smiled hearing her say,

"Adhellaa avaa onnum nenachukka maataa. Neenga soldra pola'laa illa. Avaa romba shantham aanavaa.. ungalukku'laa avaala pathi nannaa theriyala'nu sollungo.."

(He won't take this seriously at all. He's not like what you're saying. He's really calm. You all should just admit that you don't know him well than me)

Her lips twisted as she finished speaking, and I caught the edges of my dhoti from behind, adjusting it around my waist above my knees as I walked towards her.

I could tell the young women in front of her had noticed me, but they quickly suppressed their laughter. I stopped beside her, hearing her say,

"Kozhandha pola di avaa, andha kannu irukku'le? Adhu..."

(He is just like a grown-up baby. Did you see his eyes? That..)

I stood in front of her, and when she smiled widely at me, I couldn't help but cup her face in my hands, lift her chin up, and, without saying anything, lean in to pull her lower lips between mine before we found a passionate kiss.

The air was filled with the huge gasps of those behind us as her eyes widened in disbelief. However, I strictly intensified the kiss while desperately jerking her up off the ground and putting my hand around her waist. And, I could feel her slowly settling into the kiss as her fingers curled into my shirt over my shoulders. Her eyes eventually closed as she gave in to our partnership.

Even after a few more minutes, we were lost in our own world. My hands gripped her waist, her feet were pressed against mine, her toes curled with the intensity of the moment. Her hands clutched my shirt, and I kissed her neck, her breath quick and shallow as she gasped for air after our long kiss. She squirmed slightly, her back pressing against the wall, and I nuzzled deeper into her neck, my breath warm against her skin.

"You've got me losing control, Seetha"

I whispered, my voice rough with desire, unable to stop myself from pulling her closer.

"Hmm"

As she hummed softly, a moan escaping her lips, I tightened my grip on her waist, pressing gentle kisses along her jawline, down to her neck, and then to her collarbone. And, she responded with a soft tilt of her head, giving me full access, her body squirming against mine, her moans echoing softly.

But just as the moment deepened, she suddenly pushed me away, leaving me standing there, frowning in confusion, till I heard,

"Seetha.."

I turned to see Kamali, who was watching both of us intently. Turning back, I found Seetha giving her a nervous smile, leaning against the wall, her breath hitched and her neck and forehead glistening with sweat, cheeks flushed and hands trembling just like mine.

"Amma koopudraanga. Seekro vaa.."

(Mom is calling. Come quickly)

Kamali said and left the place.

I turned to look at her, breathing heavily, but before she could catch her breath, I took hold of one of her hands, tucked it behind her, pulling her closer to me as I asked,

"When are you planning to give me an answer for all this drama?"

"Naadagam ellaam illai"

(There's no drama at all)

She exhaled quickly as she spoke.

"Then what is all this? Sondha engagement'ku five hours avlo kovathula travel panni vandhavan naanaa mattum dha iruppen"

(Then what is all this? I'll be the only man who traveled five hours in such anger for his own engagement)

I said, frustrated. She smiled and caught my bicep, and I looked at her smiling lips, then at her eyes, which were brimming with something more than just happiness.

"Sorry"

She whispered.

I smiled back after what felt like a long time, holding her in my arms, feeling the warmth of her presence and seeing her smile and those happy eyes.

"Indha drama'laa naan venaa'nu dha sonnen, professor. Aana unga appa'uhm, enga amma'uhm dha kaekkala"

(I told them I didn't want to be a part of this drama, professor. But neither your father nor my mother listened to me)

She explained seriously while I watched her lips move as she spoke, my breath growing heavier.

"I am desperate"

I whispered, and she smiled, saying,

"Theriyudhu"

(I could see)

"Thank god for that"

I said, exhaling a deep breath as I leaned in to kiss her again. But just as I was about to deepen it, I pulled back, remembering that I still hadn't gotten answers for the whole families' drama against me.

But, before I could speak, she tugged me down by my shirt collar as usual, her voice soft but firm.

"I love you"

A smile spread across my face as I pressed a gentle kiss between her eyebrows, then pulled back slightly to kiss the tip of her nose.

"I love you, Seetha"

I whispered, my heart racing at the sincerity of my own words.

Her lips curved into a wide smile, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. Before I could say anything more, she wrapped her arms around my waist and buried her face against my chest. I tightened my hold around her shoulders.

"Seetha..."

"Ungalukku samadham dhane? Naan neenga samadham sonna aprom pannikalaa'nu dha nenachen. But, amma, appa dha.."

(Are you okay with this? I thought of doing all this after asking for your concern, but my parents..)

"Shh"

I pressed her face gently to my chest, my hand resting behind her head as I spoke softly.

"I'm infinity percent okay with bringing you back to my house, to my room right now, rowdy. But, I need sometime, you need sometime, and also we need some time. So, just.. konja naal dhane? Aani month is june right?"

(So... just give it a little time, alright? And isn't it June?)

She hummed softly, and I smiled, feeling her inhale my cologne. As I tried to pull back, the hot climate making me sweat, she placed her chin on my chest and looked up at me, asking,

"Verkardha? Romba yedanjal panneetaalaa en relatives ellaam?"

(Are you feeling too hot? Did my relatives make you feel crowded or uncomfortable?)

"Yedanjal'laa pannala, ma. Normal'ah've enakku heat aana climate'ku romba sweat aagum avlodha"

(Nothing like that, ma. Normally, I get sweaty in this hot climate a lot)

I said, and she responded with a soft,

"Oh"

I leaned in and kissed her hairline gently, feeling the warmth of her skin and asked,

"Yeppo soldra? I want to hear everything from you"

(When will you tell me? I want to hear everything from you)

"Aana, inniku night'eh neenga thirumba ooty poiduvinga'nu nenaikiren. Naan inga dha iruppen"

(But, I think you'll be going back to Ooty tonight and I'll stay here.)

I shook my head and exclaimed,

"No way!"

"Neenga enna sonnaalum indha aaru maasam ipdidha pogum. Invisible kooda aaga mudiyaadhu, professor"

(Whatever you say, this six months will pass like this. I can't even turn invisible, professor)

She grinned at me challengingly. I huffed and asked,

"Unakke idhu over'ah illayaa? Love solli mulusaa 24 hours kooda aagala. Are you aware of that or not?"

(Don't you think it's too much? It's still not even 24 hours since we proposed to each other. Are you aware of that or not?)

"Adhukku naan enna pandradhu? Ithana maasam naan ipdi dhane neenga yeppo propose pannuvel'nu ovvaru naalum yosichuttu irundhen? Ini aaru maasam dhane? neengalum apdiye irunga"

(What should I do about that? For all these months, I've been waiting, thinking when you'd propose. Now, you stay like that for the next six months)

She twisted her lips, and I smirked boldly at her, taking in her challenging, vengeful tone. And, without warning, I pushed her back against the wall, cupping her jawline with one hand. My thumb traced her lower lip as I locked eyes with her.

She tilted her head back, her face upward, lips parted, her eyes searching mine as I leaned in closer, my voice low and steady as I said,

"Revenge edukkanum'nu nenaikaadha. Because, nee enna ignore pannadhukku naan edukka vendiya revenge.. "

(Don't think of taking revenge on me, Seetha. Because the revenge I could take on you for ignoring me would..)

I wiped off the last trace of her nude lipstick, the subtle rose scent still lingering at the corner of her lower lip. Leaning closer, I whispered,

"You won't be able to withstand that"

My thumb lightly brushing over her now bare lower lip, watching as her breath hitched and her eyes fluttered shut for a moment.

But then, a slight wrinkle formed on her forehead. She opened her eyes, frowning, and asked,

"Enna neenga yeppo paathaalum, edhaadhu puriyaadha padiyae peseetu irukkel? Naethum ipdidha replace it with a different kind of harshness'nu sonnel... nekku adhuvum puriyala... ippo enna da'naa revenge'eh withstand panna mudiyaadhu'nu soldrel... adhuvum nekku puriyala. Puriyura maadhiriye pesa maate'laa?"

(Why do you always speak in riddles that I can't understand anything from that? Even yesterday, you said something about 'replace it with a different kind of harshness,' and I couldn't figure out what you meant. Now you're saying I won't be able to withstand your revenge. I don't understand that either! Why can't you just speak plainly and make sense?)

She fired her words in one breath, sharp and quick, before taking a deep inhale. I blinked, processing her frustration, and then sighed, running a finger over my left brow as I let go of her abruptly. But before I could turn away, she grabbed my arm, both her hands clasped tightly around my elbow, gently pulling me back to face her.

Then, one of her hands slipped under my chin, tilting my face down to meet her eyes.

"Ennaachu, sir?"

(What happened, sir?)

She asked softly this time. The word 'sir' slipping out almost automatically from her mouth.

Still calling me 'sir'?

I rolled my eyes in frustration, letting out a sigh as I replied,

"Don't 'sir' me, Seetha"

She blinked, a faint shiver passing through her as she let her hands fall to her sides. I caught the subtle parting of her lips, dry and trembling slightly, and a rush of heat surged through me. My breath hitched, and I cursed under my breath,

"Damn it!"

Unable to hold back, I cupped her face hardly, drawing her closer and pressing my lips against hers once more.

And, a quiet relief settled within me, knowing I had already confessed my obsession with kissing her; I feared she might think it was desperation if I hadn't.

With a deep breath, I deepened the kiss, my tongue tangling with hers as I pulled her closer. The heat between us intensified, and I felt the pressure of her body against mine as I pressed her back gently against the wall. I tilted my head to kiss her again, my hand brushing her waist as I felt her tense, her breath quickening, her thighs clenching as she responded to my touch.

Then, we both panted hard, our lips barely apart, brushing against each other with every shallow breath. The air between us was thick with anticipation as I could feel the warmth of her skin so close to mine. And, with a quick motion, I reached into my dhothi pocket, my fingers brushing against the fabric as I moved it towards her waist.

She gasped, her breath hitching as I gently slid my hand inside the curve of her saree, feeling the soft tremor of her body. A smirk tugged at my lips as I leaned in close to her ear, my voice a low whisper,

"Sorry, my dear..."

I said, my smirk growing as I paused for a moment before adding,

"My dear little one...? Yes, you're my little one. Aren't you?"

She blinked, her eyes meeting mine, and I could feel the shift in the air.

"Well... I was thinking of calling off our engagement. Forgive your professor"

Leaning down, I kissed the side of her head, the smirk on my face widening as I pulled my fingers out from the waist of her saree, feeling her breath tremble audibly, her body reacting to the moment.

And, as I turned to leave, I heard her gasp softly behind me, followed by a breathless exclamation,

"Perumaaleyy!"

I chuckled softly, shaking my head. Just as I was about to enter the room opposite the last on the first floor with a smile, I noticed Elangovan and Charan standing by the door. Their arms were crossed beneath their chests, blocking the space as if they were waiting for me.

With a deep sigh, I halted and shoved my hands into my pockets, facing them with a mix of annoyance and amusement, my gaze meeting theirs-intimidating as always.

"Mudunjadhaa? I have to use the room. Rendu perum apdi poringlaa?"

(Finished? I need to use the room. Would you both please move away?)

But, Elango exclaimed,

"Enna ivlo casual'ah pesura? Appo innum enna nadandhadhu'nu theriyaadhaa?"

(Still, are you speaking so casually? Don't you know what has happened yet?)

I frowned.

"Enna? Enna nadandhadhu?"

(What? What happened?)

"Dei nadikaadha. Seetha've paaka dhane pona? Unna ellaarum epdi yemaathunaanga'nu nee avakitta kaekalayaa?"

(Hey, don't act! Didn't you go to meet Seetha? Didn't you ask her how everyone betrayed you?)

I stared at him, then smiled, realizing I had completely forgotten about all those moments. All I could remember was kissing her until we were breathless. I gently touched my lower lip with my finger, my gaze dropping as I wondered what she was doing with the thing I had left with her before I walked away.

But,

"Sireyy! Enna vekkam ellaam padrel? Enna nadandhadhu?"

(Sir! Are you blushing? What happened?)

I heard Charan's teasing tone and lifted my face, keeping a straight expression, suppressing the smirk-or maybe even a blush-that was threatening to appear.

"Ippo enna theriyanum unga rendu perukkum?"

(Now, what do you both need to know from me?)

I asked them firmly.

"Aayush! Ellaarum saendhu, unna yemaatheerkaanga da"

(Aayush! Everyone has betrayed you)

"Enna yemaatheerkaanga?"

(What they had betrayed me?)

"Seetha'ku kalyanam'nu solli yemaatheerkaanga da unna"

(Everyone has betrayed you, saying Seetha is going to marry someone else)

Elango exclaimed again.

"Oh, Adhuvaa?"

(So?)

I asked casually. But, they both gasped, and Charan exclaimed, now saying,

"Naanga indha drama'laa evlo kashta pattu panneerko. Neenga enna da'naa ivlo simple'aah Adhuvaa'nu kekuringa?"

(We've put so much effort into this drama. And you, are you asking 'so' as simple as you could?)

I narrowed my brows.

"Panneerko? Purila enakku!"

(We've? I don't understand)

Charan gulped, and as I glanced at Elango, I noticed his expression shift from shock to a nervous smile, deepening my confusion.

And, it became clear to me that these two culprits were playing a bigger role in making me believe that Seetha was going to marry someone else.

But, brushing off as I want to hear the happenings from her, I remained determined and asked them,

"Edhaadhu sollanumaa?"

(Is there something you both want to say to me?)

"Illa... unakku appo enna nadandhadhu'nu theriyaadhaa?"

(Nothing... Just... so, you really don't know what actually had happened?)

I raised my brows and slowly shook my head. Elango visibly sighed in relief before turning to stare at Charan, who smiled sheepishly at him.

And I wondered,

Do they even realize they're still an ex-student and a professor?

Shaking my head, I pushed Charan aside towards Elango, then opened the door to the room, stepped inside, and locked it behind them as they exchanged glances.

Unbuttoning my silk shirt, I slipped it off along with my dhothi and placed them on the bed before heading into the restroom to take a cold bath and cool off from the heat. The bathroom had a completely traditional setup-wooden doors, wooden pipes, wooden mugs, and wooden buckets. I stood under the shower, turning it on after removing my boxers. I could already feel my body heat subsiding. Once I stepped out, I sighed, realizing I had forgotten to grab a towel. But I frowned when I noticed a towel already hung on the hook. I checked to make sure it was clean, draped it around my waist, and stepped out of the room to find Appa sitting on the bed, on a call.

He glanced at me, smiled, and gestured toward the trolley beside the bed before resuming his call. I returned his smile with a thumbs-up and turned my attention to the trolley.

"No, Mr. Udhay. We'll be there in six more hours. Wait for me. There's no need to rush"

He said into the phone.

I lifted the trolley off the floor with my left hand, placed it on the bed, and unzipped it. Pulling out the black pants and the sheer black shirt, I quickly put them on. But as I was buttoning up the shirt, I froze, letting out a sigh as a realization hit me—I had left my previously worn clothes in her room.

"Fuck"

I muttered under my breath.

Leaving the room, I hastily buttoned up the shirt, my mind racing. If someone other than her spotted my clothes in her room, it would be the perfect setup for a round of roasting. Stopping outside her door, I took a deep breath before knocking.

"Aaru?"

(Who?)

I heard her faint voice.

"Seetha... I..."

Before I could finish, she interrupted,

"Enna venum?"

(What do you want?)

I frowned, narrowing my brows, and asked,

"Is there anyone else in there with you?"

"Yedhukku kekurel?"

(Why are you asking that?)

"Kettadhukku badhil sollu, di"

(You answer me first)

I raised my voice slightly, urging a response. After a few moments of silence, I heard her soft whisper,

"Naan mattum dhaan irukken"

(It's just me)

A small smile played on my lips at her hesitant reply.

"Then open the door"

I said.

"Yedhukku? Adhella mudiyaadhu"

(Why? I won't )

She rushed through her words, her tone flustered.

I sighed, leaning against the door, and whispered urgently,

"Hey, naan en dress ulla un bathroom hanger'le vachutten, ma. Adha eduthuttu poidren. I promise"

(Hey, I left my clothes on the hanger in your bathroom. I'll just grab them and leave. I promise)

"Dress'ah?"

(Your clothes?)

She asked, her voice suspicious and also concerned.

"Yes"

"Seri Irunga naane eduthu tharen"

(Okay, wait I'll get them for you)

She replied quickly.

I sighed, shaking my head, and stood there, leaning over the door with my left hand pressed against it while glancing back occasionally to check if anyone was coming up the stairs.

And, hearing the soft creak of the door opening, I straightened up, ready to see her. But instead of stepping out, she only cracked the door open slightly, slipping her hand out with the cover containing my clothes.

It was a completely wrong move on her part.

The sight was both frustrating and far too tempting.

She shook the cover impatiently, her voice tinged with urgency as she said,

"Indhaango"

(Here)

But I stayed silent, my eyes fixed on her slim wrist adorned with a simple red bangle.

The delicate sight made my mind wander, and the sudden thought of whether the rest of her body, hidden behind the door, was covered or not sent a rush of heat coursing south.

But, I cleared my throat abruptly when I heard her voice break the silence.

"Professor?"

Her tone was hesitant, confused. I smirked, leaning against the door, waiting for her next move.

A few moments passed in silence, filled only by faint, screechy sounds from inside the room. Her hand remained stretched out, clutching the cover, as if she was unsure what to do. I frowned, tying my arms beneath my chest, steadying myself as I waited.

Then the door opened a little wider, revealing her face. She peeked out cautiously, holding the door with her other hand, but her eyes widening when they met mine. My gaze instinctively dropped to her bare shoulders, and an unmistakable blush spread across her face as she realized her mistake.

But, before she could react further, I reached out and pressed my hand firmly against the door, stopping her from closing it.

"Acho. Enna pandrel? Vidungo. Naan nanna dress pannikittu illa. Pongo ingerndhu"

(Acho. What are you doing? Let me go. I haven't dressed properly yet. Go from here)

There.. that was another wrong move on her part, as I chuckled and said,

"Well... then, I really want to see you, my little one"

I said with a mischievous smirk.

"Aiyooo. Vidungo'nah"

(Oh no, let me go bro)

She whined, attempting to close the door, but I gritted my teeth and pressed my hand firmly against it, stopping her from shutting it completely.

"Anna ginna naa palla odachiruven"

(I'll break your teeth if you call me as bro another time)

And, she pouted her lips and whispered,

"Humm.. vidungo. Please. Aaraadhu vandhura poraa"

(Let me go, please. Someone might come)

I sighed and said,

"Vandhaa enna di? We're already engaged"

(What will they do if they come? We're already engaged)

"Engaged'na?"

(Engaged. So what?)

She asked, her tone laced with intimidation.

I chuckled playfully and replied,

"Engaged! Which means we can admire each other openly and look even more pleasing to each other's eyes from now on."

But, as usual, she frowned, clearly missing the meaning behind my words, and said,

"Neenga modhala enkitta English'le pesuradha niruthunga. Romba bad'aah pesrel"

(First, stop speaking to me like this. You're speaking very bad)

She said, without even meeting my eyes.

I chuckled.

"Bad'ah pesuranaa? Naan ippo enna bad'ah pesunen? You're the one taking it that way"

(Bad? What did I say bad just now? You're the one taking it that way)

Now, she seemed to catch on as she glared at me and snapped,

"No, I'm not."

I snickered, leaned down a little to her height, and responded in a mock-serious tone,

"Yes, you are."

But she continued to glare at me as she opened the door. And, I stared at her, stunned, when she walked ahead confidently in her skirt and blouse. With one hand clutching the fabric close to her tummy, she placed a cover on my forearm, where my palm rested against the wall beside the door. Before it could slip, I instinctively caught it, amused.

But, just as she stepped back to close the door, I reached out to her clumsy saree over her stomach. Then, without thinking, I tugged her towards me, her startled eyes locking with mine and I caught her gasping lips between mine.

As I kissed her lower lip, she tried to wriggle free from my grip on her saree with her other hand, but I let the cover fall to the floor and twisted her hand behind her, over her left butt-cheek, pulling her closer. Our bodies pressed together, and I could feel the warmth of her contours against my chest.

The sensation made me lean in further, kissing her upper lip now, my hand slowly inching up from her midriff towards her left bosom. But before I could go further, she pushed me away, letting the saree slip from her grasp as she hurried inside the room. I was about to follow, but I froze upon hearing,

"Aayush"

I gulped, twisting my mustache nervously, hiding my lips behind my palm as I turned to look at Appa. He didn't seem to notice anything on the floor except for my eyes, as the saree and cover lay there. He simply said,

"We're leaving now"

I nodded quietly, and he walked back inside the room. Letting out a deep sigh, I picked up the saree and the cover from the floor, then entered the room to find her sitting on the bed. Her fists were clenched on the mattress, and her head was lowered.

Seeing her trembling lips, I walked towards her, gently placing the cover beside her thigh. I carefully draped the saree across her back, pulling it over her front to shield her from my gaze. I then cupped her chin, lifting her face to meet mine.

Her eyes were filled with unshed tears. I asked softly,

"Did I make you uncomfortable?"

She was on the verge of looking away, her eyes welling up as she held my gaze, without even responding. But, I cupped her neck this time, guiding her to face me forcefully.

"I asked you something"

I said, my voice firm but concerned.

And, she took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, before she finally asked,

"Naan enna sollanum ippo?"

(What do you expect me to say now?)

She asked, her voice trembling slightly as she met my gaze.

I looked into her eyes, then down to her lips, and quietly said,

"I'm leaving"

But she sniffled, her voice weak as she replied,

"Go ahead"

For a brief moment, I met her gaze one last time, then jerked her neck from my hold and quickly exited the room.

I walked towards the room where Appa was, but he had already come out, holding the trolleys. I glanced at him, frowning, and he answered,

"It's an emergency at my clinic, Aayush. We need to leave soon"

I nodded thoughtfully, taking the trolleys from him as he followed behind. As I passed her room without stopping, but, upon hearing,

"Aayush, nillu"

(Stop)

I stopped, shut my eyes for a moment, and turned around to see him knocking on Seetha's room door.

I stood there, letting go of the trolleys, and soon heard the sound of the door opening, followed by her soft voice.

"Mama..."

Her voice was meek, almost a whisper. I blinked, exhaled slowly, and fished my phone from my pocket, scrolling through it aimlessly while listened to their conversation.

"Are you alright?"

"Hmm. Aama, mama"

(Yes)

"Seri.. enakku clinic'le oru argent work vandhiruchu da. Naanga apdiye kelambattumaa?"

(Okay.. I have an urgent work at the clinic. Shall we leave now?)

"Mm.. seringa mama. Paarthu batharama poitu vaango"

(Mm.. okay, mama. Take care)

"Seri ma. Nee yedhum kavala padaama iru, seriyaa?"

(Okay, dear. You don't worry about anything, alright?)

I frowned and turned to look at them, only to find Appa’s gaze already fixed on me. I shifted my attention to Seetha, who was also staring at me. I quickly averted my gaze, turning away as I slipped my phone into the back pocket of my pants. Standing there, I crossed my arms over my chest.

"Naanga kelambro da"

(We’ll take our leave, dear)

Appa said, but I didn't hear anything from Seetha. As I waited to hear her voice, someone tapped me on the shoulder. I turned to find Appa, who said,

"Polaam"

(Go ahead)

I blinked, then followed him quietly without turning back to look at her, though I could feel her intense gaze on me until I left the house. Appa, me, Charan, Kamali, and Elango were in the car, and after saying our goodbyes to her parents and relatives, we drove off.

Five hours later, when I was finally alone in my room, Appa entered and said,

"Expressing something isn't wrong, Aayush. But giving space and time is essential in every relationship, especially for a woman. She'll go through a lot, before and after marriage. So..."

"Appa.. appa.. ennaachu?"

(Appa... appa... what happened?)

I interrupted, eager to understand the meaning behind his advice. I wanted to take it, but before that, I needed to understand where it was coming from.

"I think I'm the one who should be asking that question to you, Aayush"

He said.

I exhaled deeply, avoiding his gaze.

It was clear that he had somehow figured out that something had happened between Seetha and me.

"But I won't ask anything. Think about everything on your own. Naan ipdi pannu, apdi pannu soldradhukku viruppam padala. Neeye ellaam purunjukko, therinjukko. That'll be the most important thing in your marriage life. So, get used to it well before your marriage"

(But I won't ask anything. Think about everything on your own. I don't have any desire to tell you what to do or how to do it. You need to understand and figure everything out. That'll be the most important thing in your marriage life. So, get used to it well before your marriage)

He gave my cheek a light pat before leaving the room, mentioning he had to head to his clinic for an emergency.

I sat there, replaying everything in my mind, and then took my phone. Unlocking it, I went straight to her contact and typed a message.

"Would you spare me a minute?"

The message was read almost immediately, and I saw her typing, but then, she went offline. I stared at the screen in shock, mixed with regret. But, hastily, I swiped the phone down and held it close to my ear, asking,

"Are you okay?"

I heard a soft reply,

"Yes"

"Nijama?"

(Really?)

"Yen enkitta ennoda consent kaettutu yedhuvum panna maatrel?"

(Why do you do everything without asking for my consent?)

She asked hesitantly, her voice trembling a little.

"Ippo un consent kekkaama naan enna pannen?"

(What did I do without asking for your consent, now?)

I was really shocked to the core.

"Ippo varaikum neenga enmela pannadhu yedhukume en consent neenga kek.."

(Until now, you haven't asked for my consent for anything you've done to..)

"Pudikalayaa?"

(You don't like it?)

I interrupted her mid-sentence and asked, making her fall silent for a moment.

"Pudikalanaa solleerkalaa'le? Thalli vitrukalaa'le? Un appa, amma, en appa yaarkittayaadhu poi complaint panneerkalaa'le that I was being too dominant around you?"

(If you didn't like it, wouldn't you have said so? Wouldn't you have pushed me away? Wouldn't you have gone to your parents or my father and complained that I was being too dominant around you?)

I asked seriously, but she clicked her tongue and started explaining,

"Ippavum en point'ku neenga varla. En family romba aachaaram. Unga appa, Elangovan sir... ungakitta, illanaa, neenga avangakitta pesura maadhiri enkitta aarum inga pesa maataa. Modern kedaiyaadhu enga family. Nekkum, ungalukkum venaa naan apdi blouse skirt oda unga munnaadi nikkardhu normal'aah Irukkalaam, aana avangalukku apdi illa. Enga sondhathula irundha paiyan Sai Krishna, avanaye apdi enga appa adikkumbodhu ungala pesuradhukku oru nimisham yosikka maataa. Adhaa naan.."

(Even now, you're not understanding my point. My family is very traditional. Your father, Elangovan sir... whether it's with you or with them, no one here speaks or interacts the way you do. Modernity doesn't exist in my family. For you and me, it might feel normal for me to stand in front of you wearing a blouse and skirt, but for them, it's completely unacceptable. Even if it were Sai Krishna, a boy from our own family, my father wouldn't hesitate for a moment to beat him. So, if he saw me talking to you like this, he'd do the same without a second thought. That's what I'm trying to s..)

"Seetha"

And, then, I heard her sigh from the other end.

"First naan pesumbodhu nekku setha time kudungo. Pesa pesa naduvulaye niruthunaa naan epdi solluven?"

(First, give me some time when I’m talking. If you stop me from talking midway, how will I express myself?)

My brows raised in amusement, and I bit my lower lip, holding back a smile. But when she didn’t continue speaking, I called out softly,

"Oi."

"Enna?"

(What?)

She asked, irritation evident in her tone.

I chuckled lightly and said,

"Pesu, ma"

(Goahead, ma)

"Aama, nadula nirutheetu, ippo pesu pesu'naa epdi pesuradhu? Nekku ellaam marandhiruchu"

(Yeah, you interrupted me while I was talking, and now you're telling me to talk? How am I supposed to? I've forgotten everything)

I snickered.

"Sirikaadhel"

(Don't laugh)

"Seri, ma. Naan sirikala. Naan inimel apdi panna maaten. Un family munnaadi. Podhumaa?"

(Okay, ma. I'm not laughing. I won't do that again. In front of your family. Is that enough?)

I asked genuinely, concerned but she just hummed in response.

"Enna di?"

(What now?)

"Onnula ponga. Sollaama kollaama poninga'le?"

(Nothing. Go away. You didn't even inform me properly before leaving)

"Nee dhane di kovamaa irundha?"

(Was it you who were angry?)

"Yaaru naanaa? Naan paathuttu dha irundhen neenga dha thirumbeetel"

(Who, me? I was just watching, it was you who turned away)

"Seri ma, sorry ma"

"Yedhukku? Yedhukku ippo indha sorry? Adhaa rendu perum kovamaa irundho'le? Neenga.."

(Why? Why this sorry now? Both of us were angry, right? You...)

She started again.

"Seetha"

"Mch, thirumba paarunga nadula niruth.."

(Mch, see, you're interrupting me agai..)

"I love you"

I said, believing it was the only way to make her calm. As I anticipated, she went silent instantly, and I could almost feel her blush, her smile spreading across her face.

"Oi enna di? amaidhi aageeta?"

(Oi, what happened? You got silent?)

"Amma koopadraa naan apro pesuren"

(Mom is calling. I'll talk later)

She replied, whispering.

"Hey, iru. Oru 2 minutes "

(Hey, wait. Just two minutes)

I urged her to wait, knowing she was just lying about her mother calling, using it as an excuse to escape my teasing.

And, she hummed in response.

"Hmm"

"Yeppo Inga varuva?"

(When will you return here?)

"Next week?"

"Appo college'le paakalaam"

(Then, we'll meet in our college)

"Mm"

"College'le movie paakalaam"

(We'll watch movies in our college)

"Enna movie?"

(Which movie?)

"Naan soldren"

(I'll tell you)

"Mm"

"Oru romantic movies'uhm nee paathadhu illayaa? Except Roja"

(You haven't watched a single romantic movie until now? Except Roja?)

"Mhumm"

"Mmmm"

I rested one of my arms over the couch's headrest behind me, smiling, and asked,

"Seri naan vachurtumaa?"

(Okay, shall I disconnect the call?)

"Haan"

"Nerla sollu enna nadandhadhu'nu"

(Explain to me what exactly happened, when we meet in person)

"Mm"

I rolled my eyes at her continuous humming answers.

"Enna di haan, mm'ntu irukka?"

(Why are you just replying with hums?)

"Nekku oru doubt'uh kekkavaa?"

(I have one doubt. Shall I ask?)

I frowned and said,

"Kelu"

(Yes)

"Illa.. adhu.. seri, venaa naan apro kekuren. Amma mela vandhiruvaanga, bye"

(No.. that's.. okay... I'll ask later. Mom will be coming any soon, bye)

She's still hesitating, and I can't quite understand why. But, I need to make her feel at ease and carefree around me. After all we're engaged.

"Seri, forget that. So, what about that red lace one?"

I asked, teasing her, and she let out a deep sigh before replying.

"Haannnn.. adhula irundha kovam dha. Vegamaa vandhen mela. Aana.."

(Yeah... that's what made me angry. I came quickly, but...)

"Aana?"

(But?)

She clicked her tongue and asked,

"Mch, adha epdi eduthel?"

(Mch, how did you get it?)

I smiled and replied,

"I was in your room to change. Appo paathen"

(I was in your room to change. That's where I saw it)

Yeah, I was referring to her red lace bra. But, I didn't get a chance to notice her size, though.

"Ohh, aana aaraadhu paathirundhaa ungala dha thittuvaa.. nekku yendha pretchanayum illai"

(Oh, but if anyone saw, they would scold you. I don't have any problem with it)

She's teasing me.

"Enna yen di thitta poraanga? Naan summa, apdiye, we have already seen everything. What is the big deal in this'nu solleetu vandhuduven"

(Why would they scold me? I'll just say, 'We've already seen everything, what's the big deal in this?' and leave)

And she gasped in shock, exclaiming,

"Already seen everything? Seriously? Ungalukku Manda kolambeerchu"

(You have gone crazy)

I chuckled and reminded her, saying,

"Babe, I'm still your professor"

"No. Ippo en fiance"

(No. You're my fiance now)

She replied with a fake blushing tone, clearly getting back to her rowdy mode, and I said,

"Ohhh. Next week enkitta dha di python kathukka varanum. Nyaabagam vachukko"

(Ohhh. You have to come to me next week to learn Python. Remember that)

"Movie paaka dhane vara sonnel?"

(Didn't you ask me to come watch a movie?)

She whined.

"Movie'eh utkaandhu oru naal fullaa paathuttu iruppaangalaa? Then, when are you planning to complete your task by the way?"

(Are you planning to watch the movie all day and ignore everything else? Then, when are you planning to complete your task by the way?)

"Adhu paathukalaa"

(Let's see that afterwards)

She replied nonchalantly making me widen my eyes.

"Paathukalaa'laa illa. Nee innum en python class'le irundhadhe illa'le ? Let me show you from next week"

(Afterwards? You haven't been in my Python class yet, right? Let me show you from next week)

I smirked, and she asked,

"Hmm. Adippe'laa?"

(Hmm. Are you going to hit me?)

"Aama. Thola urichidten iru"

(Yes. I'm going to smack you well)

"Professoreyyy, I'm your lovely fiancée. Your precious little oneeee"

She sugarcoated her words to make me melt, but I smirked, leaning my head back on the headrest of the couch and replied,

"Nee yethana modulation'le enna konjunaalum kenjunaalum, I won't get melted, my lovely fiancée and my most precious little oneeee"

(No matter how many modulations you use, whether sweet or sharp, I won't get melted, my lovely fiancée and my most precious little one)

I repeated her words and her modulation.

"Ada ponga pa"

(You go away, man)

She replied, annoyingly and I laughed at her.

"Seri. Amma koopadraa.. naan kelambavaa?"

(Okay. Mom is calling me. Shall I take my leave?)

I closed my eyes and said,

"I'll miss you"

"Naanum"

(Me too)

"Seethaa.."

"Sollunga"

(Tell me)

"I wish... I could be there..."

I paused for a moment, letting the silence hang in the air before continuing,

"Beside you... over you... however, wherever, whenever I can, just as I wish"

"Over me?"

She asked, her voice trembling slightly.

"Mm. Over you"

I repeated, and then the call abruptly disconnected.

I chuckled to myself before getting up to refresh and called my friends to meet them for the football match at our usual spot.

But as I walked, I couldn't shake the thought—did I really just get engaged to my student?

How ridiculous.

A forbidden relationship that's actually going to last forever?

The universe truly works in mysterious ways, just like my Seetha... my little one.

I chuckled, shaking my head.

**********

TBC..

Epdi irundhuchu?

I'll add the song, POV picture, and glimpses for this chapter tomorrow. I'm really hell tired right now.

Please vote and comment ❤️🙏🏻

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