Hello 😀

Long long chapter!! 15k+ words ❤️

Don't forget to read the important note at the end of the chapter. And, please vote and comment ❤️🙏🏻

Not proof read!

Vaanga vaanga story kulla polaa 🚴‍♀️💜🦋

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♡♡

Aayush

It was such a close miss.

I had crept over to grab her phone like a thief, curious to know what had made her squirm like that. But just as I was about to succeed, she woke up and ruined my plan.

Still, the opportunity wasn't entirely wasted-I managed to steal a kiss, and a bit more, which cooled me down slightly.

Later that night, before heading to bed, I chatted with Mr. Raman to finalize the preparations and confirm everything. I fell asleep with a smile, anticipating her reaction the next day to the surprise plan about acquiring the land for our new football coaching center.

And what followed was far beyond my expectations-seeing her tears of happiness upon learning that we had finally secured the land for our dream coaching center was a moment I'll never forget.

I never imagined it was possible for someone to love another so deeply and without any boundaries. But my Seetha is that someone. And the realization that I'm the one receiving that boundless love makes me feel like the luckiest person in the entire universe.

She fell in love with me and showed me a different side of myself and the world around me.

She made me feel special, made me see her as my most special person, and left me falling even harder for her, head over heels.

And, now, I can't even imagine a life without her.

The day I shared my dream of starting a football coaching center with her, she didn't look at me as just a dreamer with an impossible goal. She listened, understood, shared her ideas, and made me feel stronger and more confident about my own dream.

And here she is now, crying in my arms, seeing my dream as hers-ours.

By becoming a part of my life, she gave my dream a new purpose, a new life.

But that lovable, cute, and supportive fiancée of mine can also transform into a bold woman, as her gaze has recently started wandering below my waistline.

I couldn't help but feel confused about what might be making her do that. But, the puzzle unraveled when she casually mentioned to her friends that she thought the surprise would involve me 'teaching her something' , followed by the way she quickly rolled her eyes to avoid staring between my legs.

I fought hard to suppress a smirk and decided to save the teasing for later-until her friends left us alone in the car.

And once they all left, I suppressed a smirk with great effort as she chuckled and smiled to her heart's content. Through the corner of my eye, I noticed her turning towards me, probably to ask or say something, but I cut her off by calling her name,

"Seetha"

She responded cheerfully,

"Haan?"

In a tone full of smiles.

I turned to face her, smiling, and asked,

"Do you want to know about my penis?"

Her expression was priceless-she gasped, her eyes and mouth opening wide in shock.

I smirked and turned my attention back to the road, focusing on the drive.

And after a moment, I saw her turn away, fidgeting with the saree on her lap, her cheeks and neck flushed a deep shade of red.

I chuckled at last, and she turned to look at me, only to find me smiling at the road.

Huffing, she started hitting my bicep repeatedly with her fists, making me laugh out loud.

I tried dodging her hits, but controlling the steering wheel made it impossible. So, finally, I pulled the car to the side and turned towards her to stop her, but she leaned in further and started hitting my chest with full force, making me wince in pain.

"Adiye, valikudhu. Podhum"

(Hey, it hurts. That's enough)

I said, wincing, but she didn't stop.

Instead, she continued hitting me with all her strength, her cheeks flushing red as she avoided meeting my eyes.

I chuckled despite the pain and said,

"Valikudhu ma"

(It hurts, ma)

Then I grabbed her hands to stop her. We both panted heavily, catching our breaths.

But still, she avoided my gaze, lowering her eyes to her lap instead of meeting mine.

I smiled softly and gently placed her hands on my shoulders.

She looked up at me with a glare, but the deep blush on her cheeks told a different story. I raised my brows at her teasingly, and she twisted her lips in mock frustration before saying,

"Romba romba kettu poitel, professor. Romba romba mosam"

(You've become very, very bad, professor. Very, very unfair)

I chuckled softly and threw my arms over her shoulders too, tilting my head as I asked,

"Yen ma? Ennaachu? Naan evlo decent aana professor'aah unakku irundhen? Neeye ipdi soldra paathiyaa?"

(Why, dear? What happened? Wasn't I the most decent professor to you? But look at what you're saying)

I feigned innocence, my tone playful.

She glared at me harder and retorted,

"Aahn. Naanum andha aala dha thaedindu irukken. Aana enmela aasa vandhadhum avaa off aayittaa, ivaa on aayittaa!"

(Oh really? I'm searching for that person too. But the moment he started loving me, that man turned off, and this one turned on!)

Her voice carried a sulky disappointment.

Smiling, I cupped her nape, pulling her face closer to mine until there was only an inch between us.

She blinked at me with her doe eyes and my voice dropped to a whisper,

"Naan mattumaa maarnen? Yen? Nee maarala?"

(Am I the only one who changed? Why? Didn't you change?)

Her hard gulp was audible, and she looked into my eyes, her voice stammering,

"Na...naan enna maarnen?"

(Wha... what did I change?)

My other hand moved behind her, trailing over the curve of her back, slipping between the folds of her saree and blouse.

Her breath hitched, and I felt her shiver in my arms.

Leaning closer, I asked softly,

"Haven't you been the one watching me there recently?"

Her fingers fisted the fabric of my shirt at my shoulders as she shut her eyes and shook her head in denial.

"No?"

Amused, I questioned again, my hand brushing against the delicate waistband of her saree.

Her head moved once more in a silent refusal.

"Are you sure?"

I whispered, my voice dropping lower. Before she could shake her head again, I let the tip of my little finger slip beneath the edge of her saree's waistband and the inskirt.

But unexpectedly, my touch found her bare skin-a fleeting warmth against my fingertip that left us both momentarily breathless.

She let out a shaky moan,

"Pr... profes... sor"

I hummed in response, my voice low as I asked,

"Did you see me there or not?"

My finger traced the soft curve of her skin between her butts, and she drew in a sharp breath.

With my other hand, I cupped the back of her neck, threading my fingers through her hair as I tilted my head, brushing our lips together.

Her softness, her breath, her panting self, her lips-they all worked together to unravel my control as my voice softened to a whisper, and I murmured,

"Fuck your periods, Seetha. You're so..."

Before I could finish, she crushed her lips against mine, silencing my words.

And in that moment, she made the boldest move she ever could-a move that would change everything.

I started kissing her with fervor, releasing her waist to adjust my seat backward.

My hands then gripped her sides firmly as I pulled her onto my lap. She gasped, her lips parting in surprise, and I seized the moment to plunge my tongue into hers, shifting between her lower and upper lips, sucking them between playful bites.

And as she shifted, squeezing her thighs together and grinding against me to find a comfortable position on my lap, I groaned at the rising tension. My hand slid beneath her saree, caressing the soft curve of her midriff. I tugged down the waistband of her saree, letting my fingers graze the warm skin beneath.

She shivered under my touch, a soft moan escaping against our kiss.

"Hmm"

But when her hands moved to stop me by catching my wrist, I caught them mid-protest, pinning them gently above her head.

She leaned back against the steering wheel in response, her chest rising and falling rapidly as I trailed my lips down her cheek, along her jawline, throat, and to the curve of her neck.

Her head fell back against the wheel as her fingers tangled in my hair, her soft moans filling the space as my lips continued their path.

Every movement, every touch, left us both breathless, locked in a moment that neither of us could undo.

I was on the verge of losing control, my fingers tracing circles around her navel and making love to it through my finger while she screamed and writhed beneath me.

The sound of her voice, soft and broken, almost moaning my name, made it harder to pull back.

But then, a phone rang in the distance.

Her breath hitched, and she whimpered,

"Aa... ph... phone"

Her voice trembling with need.

She was about to moan my name for fuck sake!

Damn the phone! Shit! Shit! Shit!

Cursing under my breath, I pulled away reluctantly, grabbed the phone, and checked the screen.

Elango.

Grinding my teeth in frustration, I slid my thumb across the screen to answer. With my face still hovering over her left breast, I pressed the phone to my ear.

"Machaaa, naan Elango pesuren da. Yen da phone edukka ivlo neram? Enga irukka?"

(Bro, it's me, Elango. Why did you take so long to answer the call? Where are you?)

His voice chimed casually.

"Ahhn..."

I snapped, my voice laced with irritation.

"Ungoppan veetla iruken, da. Mavane.. nee mattum en kannu munnaadi irundhirundhana, uyiroda podhachiruppen da. You! Fucking bastard! Cut the call. Don't come in front of me, or I swear I'll sue you!"

(I'm at your father's house, da. If you had been in front of me, I would have killed you alive, da. You! Fucking bastard! Cut the call. Don't come in front of me, or I swear I'll sue you!)

I ended the call abruptly, the frustration and heat of the moment still buzzing under my skin.

Throwing the phone onto the backseat, I buried my face between her breasts. My breaths came out ragged as I tried to cool myself down.

Her fingers found their way into my hair, threading through gently as she pulled me closer, pressing me against her chest. The gesture brought an involuntary smile to my lips.

Wrapping my arms around her waist, I held her more tightly, letting myself melt into her warmth.

Even through the layers of her saree and blouse, I could feel the rapid thrum of her heartbeat, loud and unsteady. It hit me then-I was holding her too tightly, almost crushing her in my embrace.

I pulled back immediately, releasing her, and watched as she gasped softly, straightening up, her face flushed a deep red. Her hair was disheveled, her saree crumpled against her chest and waist, bearing silent testimony to the heat of the moment we'd shared-a moment so intense yet painfully incomplete.

I was hard as hell, the tightness beneath my briefs making it impossible to ignore.

My body ached, every nerve alight, and the only thing I wanted was to finish what we had started.

But we couldn't!

I knew that!

So, I smiled softly, trying to shift the moment into something lighter. But a teasing smirk spread across my face as I pinched her waist playfully.

She flinched, letting out a sharp,

"Ahh! Valikardhu!"

(It hurs!)

Leaning back against the seat with my arms folded across my chest, I chuckled at her reaction and raised a brow, asking with a hint of mischief,

"So... any idea when you'll get off my lap?"

Her eyes blinked rapidly, trying to process my words, and by the third blink, realization dawned on her. In a flustered rush, she scrambled off my lap and into the passenger seat, her face glowing an even deeper shade of red.

I couldn't help but laugh at her adorably flustered state. She shot me a playful glare, cheeks still flushed, before chuckling and teasing me about my best friend's perfect timing. I rolled my eyes with a smile, shaking my head at her teasing.

Then sliding my hand over hers, which rested on her thigh, I steered the car with the other, the soft hum of laughter and lighthearted banter filling the space.

The ride felt carefree, but in the back of my mind, a thought lingered-a silent promise to give her exactly what she wished for me to teach her about the particular topic once her periods were over.

Suppressing a smirk, I shifted my focus back to the road, the anticipation swirling quietly within me.

Just then, her voice pulled me out of my thoughts,

"Aayushh.... s..sir"

She forgot to add the 'sir' or 'professor' , but eventually covered it, realizing her slip-up. Meanwhile, I glanced at her, raising a curious brow.

She gave me a sheepish smile before asking,

"Car'eh stop pandre'laa?"

(Will you stop the car?)

Her question made me frown slightly.

"Purila"

(I don't understand)

I replied, genuinely puzzled.

She hesitated for a moment before reaching out to hold my hand and said,

"Car'eh stop pannunga"

(Stop the car)

Still confused, I pulled over to the side of the road and parked. She let go of my hand, and before I could question her further, she opened her door and stepped out.

"Seetha"

I called, tilting my head as I watched her walk around the front of the car.

And before I could open my side door, she beat me to it, pulling it open. I blinked in surprise as she stood there, stretching out her right hand towards me.

Scrunching my face in confusion, I stared at her, trying to understand what was running through her mind.

However, I placed my hand on hers, and she held onto it tightly. I unbuckled my seatbelt, placing my right leg out first, then the left, before stepping out completely. I looked at her, correcting my hair and asked,

"Enna ma? Ennaachu?"

(What's wrong, dear? What happened?)

She grinned mischievously, letting go of my hand, and adjusted her saree. Taking the pallu from behind, she tucked it neatly into her waist, brushing past me and grazing her arm against my chest as she confidently slid into the driver's seat.

My eyes widened in surprise.

Leaning down to her level, I placed one hand on the roof of the car and the other on the door, bending closer to her.

"Enna ma pandra?"

(What are you doing?)

I asked curiously.

With her hands now on the steering wheel, she looked at me with a playful smile and asked,

"Yeringlaa? Illa naan mattum pogattumaa?"

(Are you getting in, or shall I leave on my own?)

Amused, I raised an eyebrow and chuckled.

"What?"

I asked, unable to hide my grin.

She smirked cutely, giving me a cheeky wink.

"Yerunga boss. Neenga mattum dha surprise pannuvinglaa? Naan panna maatenaa?"

(Get in, boss. You're not the only one allowed to surprise people, right? Can't I do it too?)

Smiling widely, I bit my lips to suppress a laugh, straightened up, and closed her door without second thought.

Then, walking around to the other side, I got into the passenger seat.

"Put on your seatbelt"

She commanded, her voice firm but playful.

I smirked, meeting her gaze.

"On your command, madam"

I replied with mock obedience, earning a wide smile from her.

As I fastened my seatbelt, I glanced over and noticed she wasn't wearing hers. She sat confidently, starting the car like a pro, and I couldn't help but shake my head with a small laugh at the irony.

Hearing me laugh, she turned to look at me with squinted eyes. I smiled and leaned in, but she immediately placed her hand on my chest, stopping me, her widened eyes filled with warning.

Biting my lower lip, I stretched out my hand, gently pulling her seatbelt over and securing it for her. Then, I leaned back into my seat, straightening up and looking at her.

She smiled sheepishly and said,

"Marandhutten"

(I forgot)

"Theriyudhu"

(I can see)

I replied teasingly, making her grin. She turned forward, starting to move the car.

Curious, I asked,

"Bike ota theriyadhu, aana car ota theriyumaa?"

(You don't know how to ride a bike, but you know how to drive a car?)

She shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly and said,

"Yaarukku theriyum?"

(Who knows?)

That made my eyes widen in shock as I choked out,

"What?"

She smiled wide, moved the car for a second, and then halted it abruptly with a sudden brake, making me panic.

"Hey, enna ma pandra? Car ota theriyadhaa?"

(What are you doing? Don't you know how to drive?)

She looked straight at the road, shrugged her shoulders, and shook her head saying,

"Theriyaadhu"

(I don't)

I gasped and asked,

"Appo anga enna ma pandra? Inga vaa"

(Then what are you doing there? Come here)

She turned to look at me, her hands still gripping the steering wheel, and pouted like a kid, saying,

"Bike otumbodhu mattum pinnaadi utkaandhu solli kuduthel? Car ota solli thara maate'laa? Neenga solli tharuvel'nu dha naan confident'ah vandhu utkaandhen. Aana neenga enna ota venaam'nu soldrel?"

(When I was riding a bike, you sat behind me and guided me. But you won't teach me to drive a car? I sat here confidently thinking you'd guide me, but now you're saying I shouldn't drive?)

She asked me with the look of a hurt puppy.

I felt instantly bad at my own words and actions.

Giving her a small smile, I explained,

"Idhu Ooty main road ma. Hairpin bends'laa irukkum. It's risky. Adhaa bayathula apdi sonnen"

(This is the Ooty main road, dear. There are hairpin bends. It's risky. That's why I panicked)

She clicked her tongue and asked,

"Appo nekku neenga solli thara maatelaa?"

(So, you won't teach me at all?)

I sighed, leaned towards her, and placed my hand on the steering wheel.

"First move pannadhu paathaa.. you know the basics?"

(As you've already moved the car, you know the basics?)

She smiled wide and nodded enthusiastically, saying,

"Yes. Yuvan solli kuduthirukkaan. Enga second year'le"

(Yes. Yuvan taught me during our second year.)

I squinted my eyes and asked,

"Yuvan?"

"Yes. Nekku, Kamali'ku, Pooja'ku solli kuduthaan outing poyirundhabodhu"

(Yes. He taught me, Kamali, and Pooja during an outing)

"Outing'laa povinglaa madam?"

(So, you go on outings, madam?)

I won't deny it-I'm already head over heels in possessiveness.

"Enga? Inga irukka church'ku dha. Kalaila 8 manikku poitu 9 manikku veetukku vandhiruven. Appa kooptu vandhiruvaa"

(Where? Just to the church nearby. I'd leave at 8 in the morning and come back by 9. Appa would come to pick me up)

She said it sadly.

"Acho"

(Oh no)

I said, feeling amused.

That was good, though. Otherwise, she might have fallen in love with someone before I entered her life, and everything would have fallen apart.

I thanked my mamanaar in my mind.

(Father-in-law)

But she smiled and said,

"Aana appa appa'vaa nadandhukuttaa. Evlo enna safe'aah paathukka mudiyumo avlo safe'aah paathukuttaa. Aana nekku ippovum avaala yemaathurano'ngra oru guilt irukka dha seiyudhu. But, avaa purunjuppaa'ngra nambikka nekku adha vida adhigamaave irukku"

(But Appa always thinks what's best for me. He cared for me and kept me as safe as possible. Still, I feel guilty about deceiving him. Yet, I strongly believe that he will understand eventually)

She explained everything, asking me a question and also answering it herself.

Maybe she questioned herself and answered as well to ease her own stress.

Smiling, I leaned in and kissed her cheek.

"He will. I will make him understand, ma"

I cupped her face and continued,

"Avara maadhiri anbum, paadhugaapum unakku kudukka enna thavara yaarunaalayum mudiyaadhu, nu, I will make him understand"

(No one can give you more love and protection than I can, just like he does. I'll make him understand that)

Her eyes welled up, but I brushed her cheek with my thumb and said,

"Car ota vendaam? Aludhutte irukkalaamaa?"

(Shall we not drive? Should we sit here and let us cry?)

She chuckled and turned forward. Then I taught her, as usual, about something she didn't know until I entered her life.

Though she got many scoldings from me throughout, and appreciations too, she always had a smile on her face.

She never pouted or got frustrated at my scoldings, but she always blushed at my appreciative words.

This made me a little confused, but I brushed it off, thinking she must be very happy or overwhelmed by the love I was showing through my actions rather than just my words.

But when she asked me to stop the car, I taught her, and she carefully brought the car to a halt. She turned to me with the same radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with joy. I couldn't help but smile back at her, feeling a warmth spread through my chest.

Straightening up, I made sure she had turned off the car properly, watching her every move with a soft admiration.

Satisfied, I raked my fingers through my hair and turned around to take in the view outside. But the moment my gaze landed on the scene before me, my breath hitched, catching me completely off guard.

Did I forget the most important day of my life?

Did I forget the day that turned my entire existence upside down?

My jaw clenched tightly, and my fists balled up, making it harder to even breathe.

The weight of guilt bore down on me, suffocating and relentless.

But then, the door on my side opened, and there she stood-my woman, stretching out her hand for me to hold and step out. I shook my head, unable to form a single word, my voice lost in the chaos of my thoughts.

I had forgotten-the first woman of my life, the one who gave me a reason to smile, to laugh, to feel joy, and even to understand emotions I never knew existed.

I had forgotten my mother's death anniversary, the day that marked her absence, the day that always reminded me of the void she left behind.

For the first time in all these years, I had failed to remember.

I was drowning in that cruel realization when her touch pulled me back to the present. She gently tucked my hand in hers, her warmth grounding me as I hesitantly, guiltily stepped out of the car.

She closed the door behind us with quiet precision and slipped her arm around mine, anchoring me to her. With her other hand, she caressed my bicep softly, her touch soothing the storm within me.

"It's okay"

She whispered, but it wasn't okay-my mind and heart both shouted back in unison, drowning me in the guilt of forgetting the day my mother left me all alone.

However, she shook me gently, bringing me back to the present.

"Professor, please. It's okay. You didn't do anything wrong. It's okay. Just hear me. It's okay. See... we're here now. We made it here. So, it's okay. Forget everything. Just listen to me. Ellaam okay dha. Neenga, Naan, Namma, aththa, mama, ellaarume okay dha. There's nothing wrong you did. Amma kochukka maataa. She will be more happ.."

(Everything is fine. You, me, us, aunt, mama-everyone is okay. There's nothing wrong you did. Amma won't get angry on you. She will be more happ..)

I yanked my hand away from hers before she could finish, my voice trembling as I asked,

"Yen Seetha?"

(Why, Seetha?)

She frowned at me, confused.

"Purila"

(I didn't get you)

"Unakk... unakku puriyudhaa? Naan evlo periya thappu panneerken'nu?"

(Do you... do you understand? Do you realize how big a mistake I've made?)

I asked, my voice cracking at the end, unable to contain the truth anymore-the crushing realization that I had forgotten my mother's death anniversary.

She opened her mouth to speak but quickly closed it, shaking her head as though searching for the right words. Then, just as she tried again, I cut her off, gripping her biceps tightly and shaking her as I shouted,

"Naan evlo periya thappu panni irukken, Seetha? Evlo periya thappu!"

(How big a mistake have I made, Seetha? How big a mistake!)

She winced at my firm hold, standing on her toes as she hissed softly,

"Neenga yedhuvum thappu pannala, professor. Idhula en.."

(You haven't done anything wrong, professor. Why are you..)

"Illa!"

(No!)

I yelled again, releasing her abruptly. My fingers raked through my hair in frustration as the weight of my guilt crushed me.

But she refused to back down.

She stepped closer, grabbed my hand that was still tangled in my hair, and shouted with equal intensity,

"AAYUSH!"

Her voice echoed in my ears, and I froze, startled by her outburst.

Her teary eyes bore into mine, and she shook her head firmly as she said,

"You didn't do anything wrong. Trust me. Please.."

Her voice trembled, but her conviction was clear. My throat tightened as I gulped, holding her gaze. Yet, the overwhelming guilt was impossible to suppress. I shook my head, gently prying her hand from mine as I murmured,

"Thappu dha, ma. Romba periya thappu dha"

(It's a mistake, Seetha. A huge mistake)

This time, my voice was calm, devoid of the anger from moments ago, as though I was trying not to let her feel the depth of my guilt. Then, without another word, I turned around and headed towards the car.

I opened the driver's side door as she rushed behind me, yelling in desperation, but I had made up my mind.

Sliding into the seat, I started the car, her voice barely registering over the sound of the engine. I drove away, leaving her behind-not because I didn't care, but because I need some time alone to come to terms with the things I've done.

Seetha

I just wanted to express love and cherish life while honoring my mother-in-law's presence around us.

I had planned everything a week in advance, preparing a special bouquet for her resting place and deciding to visit her with her son as an engaged couple for the first time.

But deep in my heart, I was gripped by fear, wondering how he would react to this. Mama, Elango Anna, and I knew he had forgotten his mother's death anniversary, caught up in the whirlwind of our time together.

He had been overwhelmed with my love-our love-and I couldn't help but feel equally guilty. The thought that I might be the reason he forgot such an important day haunted me.

Had I unknowingly distanced him from the purest bond of mother-son love, even though she was no longer with him?

This nagged at me endlessly, and I even voiced my guilt to Mama.

But he reassured me with comforting words,

"Avan andha depression'le irundhu veliya varadhukke nee dha, Seetha, kaaranamaa irundhirukka. Adha nenachu en Jaya sandhosham dha paduvaa. Kandippa poi avaloda blessings vaangeetu vaanga. Elango Avan oorukku poitu oru half an hour'le vandhiruvaan, avanae bouquet vaangeetu vandhiruvaan. Neenga poitu vaanga. Michatha Namma apro paathukalaa"

(You're the reason he came out of that dark phase, Seetha. My Jaya would be very happy because of that. Go and get her blessings without hesitation. Elango would have gone to town and come back within half an hour, and he would buy the bouquet himself as well. You both can go. We'll take care of the rest later)

I broke into tears, watching him leave me alone, consumed by the heartbreak of his guilt. The fear for his safety reached its peak, and I turned at the sound of another car.

I saw Mama and Elango Anna stepping out, and without a second thought, I ran to Mama, wrapping my arms around him tightly as I sobbed in his embrace.

"Seetha, ennaachu?"

(Seetha, what happened?)

Mama asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Yen Seetha alugura? Aayush enga?"

(Why are you crying, Seetha? Where is Aayush?)

I heard Elango Anna's voice, worried and firm.

Mama gently pulled me away from his embrace, holding my shoulders, and cupped my cheek.

"Enna, Seetha kutty? Yen ma alugura? Aayush edhavadhu sonnaanaa?"

(What is it, Seetha dear? Why are you crying? Did Aayush say something?)

He asked softly, trying to calm me down.

Through sniffles and sobs, I explained everything-from Aayush's guilt to how he sped away in the car, leaving me behind. Once I finished, Elango Anna hissed in frustration.

"Ivan yen ipdi irukkaan'nu enakku suthamaa purila, pa"

(I really don't understand why he behaves like this, pa)

Mama looked at me with worry etched across his face. He patted my head gently and said,

"Seri vaa. Avan varuvaan. Namma veetukku polaam"

(Alright, come on. He will come back. Let's head home)

But I shook my head immediately, tears streaming down.

"Avaa illaama epdi mama? Avaa enga ponaa'nu kooda theriyalaye"

(How can I leave without him, Mama? I don't even know where he went)

I said, my voice breaking in between hiccups.

"Hey, Seetha. Avan eppavum apdidhaan. Appa kooda pesaama irundhabodhu naan avanukku support pannaama appa'ku support pannaa kochuttu poi engayaadhu hotel'le room eduthu thangippaan. Seriyaana paithiyakaaran. Naan poi enga irukkaan'nu paakuren. Nee veetukku po, amma appa thaeda poraanga"

(Hey, Seetha. He is always like this. Back when he used to not speak with Appa, and I sided with Appa instead of him, he would get angry, leave the house, and book a room in some hotel to stay. He's such a madman. I'll go and look for him. You go home. Your mom and dad will be searching for you)

Elango Anna explained to me.

But I still felt the same fear about his safety. The way he sped off in the car with his red, welled-up eyes kept replaying in my mind, making me restless.

But Mama's voice interrupted my thoughts.

"Seetha. Avan engayum poga maataan da. Un amma appa thaeda poraanga, Seetha. Avangalukku idhellaa theriya venaam. Kashta paduvaanga. Vaa."

(Seetha, he won't go anywhere. Your mom and dad will be looking for you, Seetha. They don't need to know about all this. It will hurt them. Come on)

I gulped and, halfheartedly, moved along with them. We reached my house directly without stopping by his, where my parents and relatives were waiting.

Once inside, I locked my room door, sat on the bed with my head lowered, and closed my eyes, letting the silent tears spill freely.

The day went off like that, and my stomach pain worsened due to restlessness, fear, untimely intake of food, and overwhelming emotions. That night, I sat waiting anxiously for his call, unable to let myself sleep despite the exhaustion I had endured throughout the day.

But he neither called me nor answered any of my calls. Not even a single message came from him on any of the social media platforms.

I didn't know or couldn't understand what I should do next. The clock ticked, catching my attention, and I glanced over to see that it was 3:45 in the early morning. I got down from the bed to change my pad, then returned to gulp down some water.

Lying back down on the bed, I continued to wait for him. But I didn't realize when my eyes closed on their own, and I drifted off to sleep.

The two mornings had passed. But he didn't even take a single minute or second to call or message me, letting me know he was safe.

I was worn out, drained from thinking about him, asking about him to Mama and Elango Anna, masking up my emotions in front of my parents, relatives, and especially my grandmother.

I kept telling myself he was safe and would return soon.

In between those days, I informed the restaurant manager where we used to work that I was quitting the job. I spent my time locked inside my room, thinking about him, about us.

I rolled onto my stomach on the couch, placing my cheek on the headrest, staring at the bed.

Clicking my tongue, I muttered to myself, angrily,

"Mch, enga dha ponaaru? Vandhadhum nannaa adi kodukanum. Romba dha Adam. Overthinking moola vera. Back vaangunaa kooda idhukku paravala pola"

(Mch, where has he gone? The moment he returns, I need to give him a proper beating. So stubborn. And this overthinking! Even if he thinks reverse from his brain, it seems worth it)

I sulked, thinking about him.

But I jerked when I felt vibrations under my stomach. Sighing in relief, I realized it was my phone ringing. Pulling it out from where it had been jammed between my stomach and the couch, I saw Elango Anna's name flashing on the screen.

Hastily, I attended the call, hoping he had found where my man had gone.

"Hello, Anna"

I called, but before I could hear his voice, the door of my room swung open with a loud thud.

My heart jumped, and I quickly sat up on the couch. But, my breath hitched as my eyes landed on him-standing there in a black shirt and black pants, his eyes puffy slightly with dark circles beneath them, his lips parched, and his tousled hair messier than ever.

I swallowed hard, staring at him as he locked his gaze on mine. He stepped inside, and I hurriedly stood up from the couch, gripping my phone tightly in one hand while clutching my saree pallu with the other.

My mind raced-was he still drowning in guilt? Was he angry at me? Or worse, was he here to break up with me, thinking I had separated him from his mother's thoughts?

He continued walking towards me, and I blinked, glancing at my phone only to see the call with Elango Anna had ended.

Looking back at him, I managed a hesitant smile and asked,

"Yepp... yeppo vandhel? Appa kitta edhaavadhu pesanumaa? Appa, amma sondha oorukku poyirukkaa. Nalaiku dha varuvaa. Edhaadhu saapudrelaa?"

(Wh... when did you come? Do you need to talk to Appa about anything? Appa and Amma have gone to our hometown. They'll return tomorrow. Do you want to eat something?)

But he stopped right in front of me, his intense gaze making my breaths quicken. Clearing my throat nervously, I caught my saree pallu from behind and tucked it into my waist, mumbling,

"Na... naan ungalukku tea podren. Neenga refresh aageetu vaango"

(I'll make you some tea. You can go freshen up)

Without waiting for his response, I tried to walk past him hurriedly, but I froze as his hand wrapped around my wrist.

No, Seetha. Leave now. You're mad at him.

I thought. But, gasping, I was twirled forcefully, colliding against his chest. Looking up at him, my breathing grew shaky. I parted my lips, about to ask where the hell he went for the past two days, but before a word could escape, he claimed my mouth with his in a fierce kiss.

The intensity of it pushed me back a step, and I found myself pinned against the wall. His fingers intertwined with mine as he pinned my hands near my head, bending down to deepen the kiss.

My heart raced uncontrollably, but as his lips demanded more, the pent-up emotions of the last two days flooded through me. I wriggled against him, pushing him away with all my strength.

He stumbled back, staring at me dazed and confused. My chest heaved as I looked at him, trying to calm my shaking breath, while his eyes silently searched mine for answers.

"Enna panneetu irukkel? Enna paathaa epdi theriyardhu? Anniku thannandh thaniyaa road'le vittutu dhaane ponel? Rendu naal pooraa yaartayum onnum sollaama engayo poyiruvel, inga naanga ellaarum usura kaila puduchuttu irukkanum. Aana sir mattum vandhadhum venungradha vaangeetu pesaama poyiruvel apdidhane?"

(What have you been doing? How does it look when you see me? That day, didn't you leave me all alone on the road and go away? For two whole days, without saying a word to anyone, you disappeared somewhere while we were all here holding our breath in worry. But the moment sir arrived, you took what you wanted and are planning to leave without a word, isn't it?)

I yelled at him, my voice cracking with frustration and hurt.

But, before he could respond or defend himself, I started hitting his chest repeatedly, each hit carrying the weight of my bottled-up emotions. He winced loudly, clutching his chest in pain as he tried to stop me.

"Ahh! Amma! Appa!"

He cried out dramatically.

"Thatha paati'nu yaara kooptaalum, inniku ungala vidradhaa illa!"

(Even if you call out to your grandparents, I'm not sparing you today!)

I snapped, refusing to let him escape my wrath.

Continuing to hit him with all the force, my hands started aching, so I looked around, searching for something.

Then, tucking my pallu firmly into my waist, I grabbed a pillow from the couch and turned to see him watching me with an amused expression.

But, ignoring his amusement, I marched forward and began hitting him with the pillow. He dodged and ran behind me, laughing, and I spun around to face him as he said,

"Enna di pandra? Pillow vachu aduchaa valikumaa, ma? Enna ma nee, sirupillai thanamaa nadandhukaadha, ma"

(What are you doing? Do you think hitting me with a pillow will hurt? Don't behave like a little kid)

His teasing tone and chuckle irked me even more. I was genuinely angry, and here he was, making fun of me.

Gritting my teeth, I raised the pillow high over my head and charged at him with full force. Jumping off my feet to meet his height, I slammed the pillow hard on the top of his head.

"Amma!"

He winced, rubbing his head in exaggerated pain.

I smirked at him, panting.

"Valikardhaa? Aahn? Naan sirupillai thanamaa nadandhukurenaa? Aahn?!"

(Hurts, doesn't it? Am I acting like a little kid now? Huh?!)

I lifted the pillow again, tilting my head back as I prepared to strike him one more time. But before I could, he acted swiftly, grabbing my saree-clad waist on one side and my bare waist on the other.

In one quick move, he lifted me off the ground and placed me on the bed.

I yelped in surprise as he stepped back, leaning against the rack of my bookshelf. He placed his hands on either side of the shelf for support, panting slightly as he hissed,

"Yemmaa! Enna adi adikira di nee?"

(Girl! Why are you hitting me like this?)

I threw the pillow onto the bed, planting my hands on my hips as I retorted,

"Neenga pannadhukku idhellaa kammi dha. Vera yevalaa irundhaa thola urichiruppaa. Mmm.."

(For what you did, this is nothing. If it had been some other girl, she would've torn you apart. Mmm..)

He gasped at me, taken aback.

"Naan un professor, ma. Did you remember it or not?"

(I'm your professor, girl. Did you remember it or not?)

He asked, shock evident in his voice.

"Naan ungalodaya fiancée. You remember it or not? Neenga enna anga thaniyaa vittutu poi, naan safe'ah irukenaa'nu kooda paathukkama poyiteenga. Ippo rendu naal kazhichu inga vandhu, sorry sollaama, ungaloda thoughts'eh explain pannaama, you were already ready to kiss me and do such things!"

(I am your fiancée. You remember it or not? You left me alone there without even ensuring if I was safe or not. Now, after two days, you've come here and without apologizing or explaining your thoughts, you were already ready to kiss me and do such things!)

I yelled at him and stepped down from the bed, intending to march out of the room. But, he grabbed my left wrist firmly, stopping me. Then, before I could react, he spun me around again and pinned me against the bedpost with my left hand raised above my head and then brought his other hand up, pinning both my hands with his above my head against the bedpost behind me.

"Nee sonna maadhiri, I didn't come here to do such things, Seetha. Naan unna romba miss pannen, adhukkaaga dha vandhen. Idhuvum thappaa?"

(I didn't come here to do such things, like you said, Seetha. I just missed you a lot. Was that also a mistake?)

I looked up at him as he gritted the words through clenched teeth, his intense gaze locked onto mine.

"Idhuvum thappu illa. Anniku Namma anga ponadhum thappu illa. Aana neenga ipdi overthink pandradhu dha thappu'nu soldren. You're going to lose your mind, professor, if you keep being like this"

(This isn't wrong either. That day, us going there wasn't wrong. But you overthinking like this is what's wrong. You're going to lose your mind, professor, if you keep being like this)

I whispered, yelling back at him.

No matter what, I must stay bold and make him realize that he's overthinking everything around him a lot and stressing himself unnecessarily.

But he took a deep breath and said,

"I... I'm thinking wide. That doesn't mean I'm overthinking"

(I.. I'm thinking wide. That doesn't mean I'm overthinking)

He tried to reason without getting a nerve to understand me.

"Oh"

I sounded mockingly amused by his answer.

"So.. neenga pannadhu correct dha. And, neenga overthink pannave illa. Apdidhane?"

(So... what you did was right. And you didn't overthink at all. Is that so?)

"Yes, and it's true. She's my mother, how can I forget her? How can I feel less worried and be happy with you at that time when I realize that I had forgotten my mother's death anniversary for the fucking first time in my life since she left me all alone in this cruel world?"

He shouted at last, his voice breaking with anger and pain.

I blinked at him while he jerked me away, leaving my hands and taking a few steps back, running his fingers through his beard with one hand while the other rested on his hip, looking restless and angry.

I gulped upon seeing his behavior and took a deep breath before settling myself on the couch behind him, walking past him. I sat on it, watching as his feet turned slightly.

He took his steps forward, moving beside the bed, then towards the door, stopping briefly before turning back and hurrying to me.

Before I could understand what he was up to, he knelt before me, cupping my face in his warm hands, tilting my face upward to meet his eyes.

But I stayed stubborn, refusing to give him a glance.

He clicked his tongue.

"Mch. Seetha. I'm sorry, ma. Naan unkitta kathanum'nu nenachu inga varla. And I know how upset you feel when I shout at you. I'm sorry. But... ennayum nee konjo purunjukko. Please"

(I didn't come here thinking I would yell at you. And I know how upset you feel when I shout at you. I'm sorry. But... try to understand me a little too. Please)

This time, I met his eyes, looking at him directly.

"Naan ungala purunjukkaama dha ithana maasamaa ungakooda irukkanaa? You know that I know you better than you know yourself. I understand you more than you do. Adhanaala dha neenga anniku enna anga thaniyaa vittutu ponadhum nekku shocking'aah irundhadhu. You're not that type. Enna nadandhaalum, ennoda safety dha unga first priority'ah irukkum. Also, enkitta neenga edhuvume share pannaama irundha kaalam ellaam yeppovo poyiruchu'nu nenachen, professor. But here you are, still stuck in your own thoughts, clinging to them as though they're the only truth you know. Innum enna neenga mulusaa unga life'le yethukala, sir. That's the truth"

(Have I been with you all these months without understanding you? You know that I know you better than you know yourself. I understand you more than you do. That's why it was shocking for me that you left me alone that day. You're not like that. No matter what happens, my safety is always your first priority. And I thought the time when you wouldn't share anything with me was long gone, professor. But here you are, still stuck in your own thoughts, clinging to them as though they're the only truth you know. You haven't fully accepted me in your life yet, sir. That's the truth)

I yelled at last, my eyes welling up with tears. He cradled my face firmly, shaking his head, saying,

"Apdilaa illa ma"

(It's not like that, ma)

But I shook my head back.

"Apdidha, professor. Nekku innum unga life le oru part kedaikala"

(It is, professor. I still haven't found a place for me in your life)

"Don't speak like this, Seetha. I have you here and you know that very well"

He said, catching my palm and placing it over his chest.

I stared at him and said,

"Only here"

He stared back at me, his expression softening before continuing,

"Not in your life. Maybe you don't want me to be a part of your life for making decisions. You only want me to love me, care for me, and teach me a few things, avlodha. Mathapadi ungalukku naan yedhukkum unga life'le venaam. Neenga sonnadha seiyanum, neenga care pannaa eduthukanum, adhey naan care pannanu, ungaloda pain'le naanum kooda irukkanum'nu nenachaa irukka koodaadhu. Apdidhane?"

(Not in your life. Maybe you don't want me to be a part of your life for making decisions. You only want me to love me, care for me, and teach me a few things, that's all. Beyond that, you don't need me in your life. Whatever you say, I should do. If you care about me, I should accept it. But if I care about you, I shouldn't expect you to accept it. And I shouldn't think I have the right to share in your pain. Isn't that it?)

He looked at me, dazed.

Gently, I removed his hands from my cheeks and wiped my tears away, taking a deep breath before saying,

"Seri. Let's forget all that. I know, neenga Elango Anna kitta phone or message panni ketruppel, naan nallaarkenaa, naan saaptanaa'nu. I know you too well. I understand you. Adha neenga purinjukkonga'nu dha soldren. I am not a kid, professor. Ennaala unga pain thaangikka mudiyaama vulnerable aaga mattum dha mudiyum'nu illa. I can lend you my shoulder too"

(Alright. Let's forget all that. I know-you must have called or messaged Elango Anna to ask if I'm doing okay, if I've eaten. I know you too well. I understand you. All I'm saying is, please try to understand me too. I am not a kid, professor. It's not like I'll only end up being vulnerable because I can't handle your pain. I can lend you my shoulder too)

I tried to keep my voice steady, continuing,

"Trip'le night nammala suthi yaarum illaadhabodhu campfire munnaadi amma've pathi pesi yaenguna Aayush'ah irundhaalum seri, anniku enna thaniyaa vittutu pona Aayush'ah irundhaalum seri, Ippo enna thirumba paaka odi vandhu kiss panna en Aayush'ah irundhaalum seri.. nekku yendha Aayush'ah irundhaalum avara ennaala understand pannika mudiyum"

(On that trip, when there was no one around us at night, sitting by the campfire, whether it was the Aayush who spoke about amma and yearned for her love, or the Aayush who left me alone that day, or even the Aayush who came running back now just to kiss me.. I can understand any version of him)

I gave him a small smile, trying to lighten the tension.

"I am sorry. Just heat of the moment'le such things'nlaa solleeten. I am really sorry. Edhaadhu saapudre'laa?"

(I am sorry. It was just the heat of the moment, and I ended up saying your feelings as 'such things'. I am really sorry. Can I get you something to eat?)

I saw his eyes welling up, and as I felt myself growing vulnerable, sensing that he might break down, he straightened slightly. Then, without warning, he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and pulled me close, burying his face in the curve of my neck.

My breath hitched slightly, but I slowly let my arms wrap around his shoulders, pulling him more into a warm embrace. I cradled his head gently, running my fingers through his hair as I felt the dampness of his tears soaking into my neck.

My heart ached at his silent breakdown, and I held him tighter, silently comforting him as he let his emotions flow.

"I am sorry"

I heard him whisper against my neck. In response, I tightened my hold around him more and more, my fingers tangling in the hair at the back of his head, seeking to reassure him. I inhaled the familiar scent of his cologne to calm myself down and replied softly,

"It's okay. Naan sonnen'le, everything will be okay'nu? Neenga dha overthink panneetinga"

(It's okay. Didn't I tell you that everything will be okay? You're the one who's overthinking)

I hoped my words would help him realize that his overthinking was the root of all this turmoil. For a moment, he remained silent, and then I heard him admit, his voice heavy with emotion,

"Ennaala overthink'laa pannaama irukka mudiyaadhu, ma. I've been left all alone since my childhood. Enna suthi irukka ellaarume, avanga enakku nalladhey senjaalum, naan adha negative'ah vo illa wide'ah vo yosichu palageeten. I can't seem to change that"

(I can't stop overthinking, ma. I've been left all alone since my childhood. No matter what happens around me, even if people do something good for me, I've developed this habit of overanalyzing it negatively and widely. I can't seem to change that)

Hearing his confession, my heart clenched with an ache I couldn't describe. This was the vulnerable side of him he rarely showed, and while it pained me to hear it, but, I was also relieved that he was opening up.

I ran my fingers gently through his hair, grounding him in my embrace, and whispered,

"Professor. Yethuvum namma naala mudiyaadhu'nu namma yeppo nenaikiromo appodha adhu unmaiyaave nammanaala mudiyaadhadhaa aagum. Adhanala, indha overthinking'eh apdiye marandhirunga, professor. Adha vitrunga"

(Professor, whenever we think something is beyond our capability, it truly becomes impossible for us. That's why, let go of this overthinking, professor. Just leave it behind)

I felt his grip tighten slightly on me as though my words were beginning to take root within him. I silently hoped that this would be the start of him letting go of the baggage he carried so heavily on his shoulders for the past two days.

After a couple of minutes, I gently combed his hair as he sat beside me on the floor, his head leaning gently against my thigh with his eyes closed. One knee was pulled up while the other leg lay folded to the side on the floor. His one arm rested casually on his raised knee, while the other was wrapped around my leg, cradling my foot in his hand.

His thumb stroked softly across my skin, sending ripples of warmth through me.

I spoke softly, telling him how I spent my time thinking only about him. A small smile played on his lips throughout as he listened.

Curious, I asked,

"Neenga enga poninga?"

(Where did you go?)

He opened his eyes, turned slightly to face me, straightening up, and without a word, slipped his arm beneath my waist and knees.

Before I could react, he lifted me off the couch effortlessly and placed me on his lap. Then, wrapping his arms around my waist, he hugged me so close, his chin resting on my shoulder as he looked at me with a dimpled smile, raising his brows like an innocent child.

That was so smooth.

"Oh, really?"

He asked, amused, his tone playful.

Realizing I had voiced my thoughts out loud, I covered my mouth with my palms in shock, feeling utterly embarrassed.

And he chuckled at my reaction, clearly entertained.

"Seri soldren kelu"

(Fine, I'll tell you)

He said, and continued,

"Namma street'ku pinnaadi irukka street'le irukka oru hotel'le dha thangi irundhen"

(I stayed at a hotel behind our street)

"Thaniyaa vaa?"

(Alone?)

I asked, narrowing my eyes.

"Illa naraya ponnunga kooda"

(No, with lots of girls)

He replied cheekily.

"Aii!"

I exclaimed, playfully hitting his shoulder, making him laugh.

"Pinna enna ma? Naan yaarkooda irukka poren? Summa anga irundhen, en mind divert pandradhukku"

(Then what, ma? Who else would I stay with? I was just there trying to distract my mind.)

He said, his voice turning soft again.

"Ohh, so mind divert aayiduthung'laa?"

(Oh, so your mind got distracted, huh?)

I asked, a smile tugging at my lips as I locked my hands around his neck.

His eyes softened as he held me close, his warmth easing the tension in the air.

"Illa, adhigam aayiruchu. Innum adhigam aageeda koodaadhu'nu dha en pondatti'eh paathu serotonin boost vaangeetu polaa'nu vandhen"

(No, it felt miserable. I just came to see my wife, get some serotonin boost, and prevent things from getting worse)

He said, flirting effortlessly.

I blushed and asked,

"Boost kedachiduthaa?"

(Did you get your boost?)

He whined like a child, hugged me tightly, and pouted,

"Enga ma, nalla adi dha kuduthaa"

(Why, ma? All I got was a good beating)

I chuckled, pinched his bearded cheek, and asked,

"Acho adi balamo?"

(Oh no, was the beating painful?)

"Pinna? Andha pillow vachu ongi onnu mandailaye potaa paaru"

(What else? Just imagine getting hit on the head with that pillow.)

He said dramatically, shaking his head with an amused look.

I laughed out loud at his antics and then asked,

"Seri serious'aah sollunga. Ippo yendha guilt'uhm illa'le? Naan yedhuvum thappu pannalaye?"

(Alright, seriously, tell me. Do you feel any guilt now? I didn't do anything wrong, right?)

His eyes softened at my question, and he replied,

"En pondatti ennaiku thappu panneerkaa? Ellaathayum overthink panni eppavum thappu pandradhu naan dhane?"

(When has my wife ever done anything wrong? I'm the one who always overthinks everything and messes up)

I smiled and placed my hand on his bare chest, which was partially visible through the top two open buttons of his black shirt, and said,

"Thappu'laa illa. Apdi paathaa en melayum dha thappu irukku. Ungakitta naan first'eh solleerkanum aththai'eh paaka polaam'nu. Adhukkapro kooptu poyirukanum. Indha vishyathula surprise panna naan nenachirukka koodaadhu"

(It was not wrong. If you look at it that way, the fault lies with me too. I should have told you first and taken you to see my MIL. I shouldn't have thought of surprising you in this matter)

But he shook his head and said,

"Naan eppavume amma kitta thaniyaa irukken ma, yen enna vittutu poninga'nu dha Seetha kaettu aludhirukken. Aana ippo oru thunai'ah unna avanga enakku kudutha apromum, naan avangala marandhuttu unna eduthukutten'nu nenacha naan dha romba periya muttal. Amma'uhn naan anniku unkitta apdi nadandhukittu, unna thaniyaa anga vittutu vandhadhukku, enna maadhiriye varutham dha patruppaanga."

(I always cried, asking why she left me alone like this, Seetha. But now, if I start believing that having you, the companion she gave me, means betraying her, then that would be the greatest act of foolishness I could ever commit. And I swear, Amma too would've felt the same guilt and pain I'm feeling now for leaving you alone like that on that day)

His voice softened, layered with regret.

"I pushed everyone into a helpless state. Including myself. I was left utterly helpless, Seetha. Enakku thirumba unna paaka varadhukku kooda kashtamaa dha irundhadhu. Aana nee enna thappaa nenaika maata'nu theriyum. That doesn't mean I'm taking advantage of the way you accept everything that happens because of me. Enakku unna pathi theriyum. Unakkum enna pathi theriyum"

(I pushed everyone into a helpless state. Including myself. I was left utterly helpless, Seetha. Even gathering the courage to come back and see you felt like a struggle. But I know you would never think of me as wrong. That doesn't mean I'm taking advantage of the way you accept everything that happens because of me. I know you, Seetha. And you know me too)

He leaned closer, his gaze brimming with warmth and love, and added with a tender smile,

"Adhaa odane nee enna nenachaalum paravala, adichaalum paravala'nu prepared'aah unna paaka vandhen. Serotonin boost kaaga'laa varla. I came just to see these eyes of yours"

(That's why I came prepared for whatever you'd think of me or even if you scolded me. I didn't come for a serotonin boost. I came just to see these eyes of yours)

I stared at him, overwhelmed by the depth of his words, and for a moment, I was speechless.

He loves me-deeply, madly, and truly.

Just like I love him.

His respect and care for me are beyond measure.

And in that moment, I realized that this-this love, this relationship we have-is enough for me.

I leaned in and placed a soft kiss between his eyebrows before pulling back to meet his gaze.

His smile was genuine-warm, lovely, and brimming with emotions that made my heart swell.

I smiled back, leaning my cheek against his shoulder, seeking solace in his presence. He pressed a gentle kiss on my other cheek, and I closed my eyes, letting his love envelop me completely. After two days of restless thoughts revolving only around him, having him here like this felt like a blessing.

As silence enveloped us, I suddenly became aware of where my hand rested. I froze, feeling the faint prickle of his chest hair against my inner palm. My eyes widened in shock, but I quickly shut them, a flush of embarrassment flooding my face.

Before I could move silently without getting caught, I felt his warm breath brushing against my ear as he whispered teasingly,

"Planning to stay here with your hand there until your parents get back?"

My face flushed instantly. I turned away, burying my face into his shoulder in sheer embarrassment. He chuckled, the deep timbre of his laughter vibrating through me. His hand gently pressed over mine, which was still resting on his chest.

"You can, Seetha"

He said softly against my shoulder.

I smiled shyly, my heart pounding in my chest, but before I could respond, he leaned closer, breathing in the scent from my nape, his voice lowering to a whisper,

"Till my last breath"

I gulped, his words sinking deep into me. Gathering my courage, I tilted my face to meet his gaze. But his face was so close to mine, our breaths mingling as we locked eyes. Time seemed to freeze, and as always, I wasn't sure who leaned in first.

Our eyes closed as our lips met in a soft kiss.

It was hesitant at first, as it had been more than 48 hours since we last kissed. Our lips brushed lightly, but the tender exchange deepened, becoming more purposeful. We alternated between each other's upper and lower lips, savoring the moment, as if we were pouring all our emotions into this kiss-a kiss that spoke of love, longing, and an unspoken promise.

"Hmmm"

I moaned softly into the kiss as the back of his hand trailed up my arm, sending a shiver through me. His touch was tender yet deliberate. His hand found my waist, slipping beneath my saree, and he squeezed it, his thumb brushing over my bare skin in slow, deliberate circles.

The sensation made me curl my toes, and I instinctively pulled back from the kiss, needing a moment to steady myself.

He looked at me without blinking, his gaze piercing and filled with unspoken emotions. I felt my heart race as the reality of us being alone in my room settled in.

Taking a deep breath to gather my courage, I let my hand trail up his chest slowly, feeling the heat radiating from him. Then, my fingers paused before retracing the same path, and I noticed the way his breath grew uneven, his eyes darkening with a growing desire.

Mustering courage, I leaned in, halting my hand movement as I cupped his jawline with my thumb beside his ear and my other fingers behind it, then pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek.

He closed his eyes, his arms wrapping around me tightly, pulling me closer into him. In that moment, as his embrace tightened and I felt the warmth of his presence, it was as if the world outside ceased to exist. It was just us, surrounded by the stillness of the room and the quiet intensity of our connection

I placed another soft kiss on his other cheek, cupping his face with both of my hands. Then, gently pulling his face down towards me, I pressed a tender kiss to the center of his forehead. Meanwhile, his thumb continued to caress my bare waist, sending sparks through me as I watched his eyes flutter closed.

Smiling softly, I kissed above his closed eyelids, cherishing the way his features softened under my touch.

Leaning down, I brushed a soft kiss just above his parted lips before trailing down to his chin. My hand grazed his left jawline, feeling the roughness of his beard, while my other hand rested on his shoulder, pressing gently against the fabric of his black shirt.

Then, when I opened my eyes, I found him already looking at me, a knowing smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. Heat rushed to my face, and I lowered my gaze, shyly removing his hand as it began to drift lower towards my posterior.

And turning to face him fully, I faltered for a moment, realizing that straddling him was difficult because of my saree. Instead, I kept my legs to his left side, cupped his jawlines, and kissed his cheeks again, savoring the warmth beneath my lips.

The feel of his strong features against my lips intensified my desires, taking them to a new level.

I felt his hand slip from my waist, and when I looked up, he had placed his both arms on the couch, behind him, spreading them wide with a raised brows, teasing me.

Biting my lip to control the blush spreading across my face, I leaned in again, placing kisses along his forehead, nose, lips, and chin. As I continued downward, his head tilted back slightly, giving me an unobstructed view of his Adam's apple.

My breath hitched involuntarily, and when he swallowed, the single motion of his Adam's apple bobbing up and down sent a wave of heat coursing through me.

Without a second thought, my toes curled as my fingers tightened around his shirt collar. Drawn by an unspoken pull, my eyes drifted shut, and I leaned in, pressing a soft kiss against the curve of his throat.

He swallowed again, the sensation under my lips making my heart melt. I kissed him there once more before trailing to the side of his neck, pressing three more kisses there.

And the way he tilted his head to give me more access felt like silent permission, and it made my heart both race and flutter.

A flush of embarrassment washed over me as I realized how bold I was being.

Am I behaving like a pervert?

As I wondered at my own boldness in being so intimate with him, I gasped, pulling back from my thoughts when he suddenly drew me closer, his hand gripping my nape with a touch that was firm yet gentle.

The force of his pull made my lips brush against his collarbone, sending a jolt through me. I froze for a second before placing my cheek on his chest, my eyes inevitably landing on the open part of his shirt.

With two buttons undone, the mole at the center of his chest peeked out, taunting my gaze.

I clenched my fist, trying to keep my hands and eyes in check, but my fingers instinctively tugged at his third button as I whispered,

"Idhukku ellaa button'uhm kalatteetu suthalaam. Yedhukku indha free fashion show?"

(You could have removed all the buttons and roamed around. Why this free fashion show?)

But his deep chuckle vibrated through his chest, and I felt his thumb begin to trace slow circles on the back of my neck.

Then, leaning in closer, he whispered,

"Venum'na kalattiko, di. Summa kova padra maadhiri nadikaadha"

(If you want, remove them, girl. Don't pretend to be angry)

His teasing words made me grin shyly, but I quickly composed myself, pulling back just enough to look at him. My fingers were still pinching his third button, and my other hand instinctively rested on his collar.

And I tugged him closer by the collar, my voice wavering as I tried to suppress my nervousness.

"Naa..naan yen kalattanu?"

(Wh.. why would I remove it?)

But he smirked, his intense gaze boring into mine as he asked,

"Appo?"

(Then?)

"Appo?"

(Then?)

I repeated softly, my breath hitching as his left hand moved from the couch to cover mine, which was still holding the button.

Then, the deliberate movement of his fingers over mine made it clear he was undoing his shirt.

My face burned as I realized his intention, and I couldn't help but smile nervously.

"Na... naan poi ungalukku edhaadhu saapda kondu varen. Neenga refresh aagunga"

(I... I'll go and bring you something to eat. You freshen up)

I blurted out hastily, springing up from his lap.

My movements were so abrupt that I almost stumbled, but I quickly steadied myself, bolting towards the door.

And closing it behind me, I leaned against it, struggling to calm my racing heart and shaky breath.

Perumaaley!

(Oh, God!)

Naan mattum ippo endhiruchu varlanaa enna aagi irukkum?

(If I hadn't escaped now, what would have happened to me?)

Shivering at the thought, I shook my head, trying to clear my mind before heading to the kitchen.

I reheated the rasam and fried some wheel-shaped chips, the kind we always kept on hand for quick snacks. It was already 2 in the afternoon, and as I busied myself in the kitchen, though my thoughts drifted back to him.

His teasing, his touch, and that smirk of his... I blushed furiously, shaking my head to snap myself out of it.

Niruthu, Seetha! Porum.

(Stop it, Seetha! Enough)

I scolded myself, though the warmth in my cheeks refused to subside.

But I jerked slightly, startled by his deep voice, from outside the kitchen, as he said,

"Aama, pa. No, you carry on. I'll take care. Sorry, pa. Okay"

Curious, I set the frying ladle on the counter beside the stove and leaned back slightly to sneak a peek at him.

However, as soon as I caught sight of him, a gasp escaped me, and in my shock, I lost my balance, slipping and landing on my back with a loud thud.

"Amma!"

I groaned in pain, holding my left butt, and heard him exclaim,

"Heyyy!"

In an instant, he was by my side, trying to help me up. But I raised my hand towards him, avoiding his gaze, and said,

"Enkitta varaadhel"

(Don't come near me)

"Haan?"

He asked, confused.

"Kitta varaadhel'nu sonnen. Dhooram pongo"

(I said don't come near me. Go away)

I repeated firmly.

I then, heard him click his tongue in irritation before he grabbed my elbow, attempting to help me up again. But I swatted his hand away, yelling,

"Bhagavaaney! modhala ingerndhu pongo. Patta pagal'le ippadi vandhu oru ponnu thaniyaa irukka veetla nikkirel? Perumaaley! Pongo ingerndhu... oww..."

(Oh God, first go away from here. A daylight, and you're standing here like this where a girl is alone. God! Just leave from here... oww...)

I whined in pain, clutching my sore spot.

But I heard him chuckle and swiftly looked up at him, only to see him shaking his head while pressing his fingers to his lips to suppress his laugh.

My lips twitched involuntarily, and I struggled to control my smile as I turned my face away from him.

Indhaalu irukkaare..

(This guy!)

I tried grabbing the kitchen counter to lift myself up from the floor, but a sharp pain made me wince.

Then, before I could try again, he scooped me up in his arms, making me yelp in surprise. But, without saying a word, he carried me and placed me gently on the kitchen counter.

I winced slightly as I sat on my sore butt, and before I could try any stunts to escape, my breath hitched when he placed both his hands on the counter near my thighs on either side, caging me.

Maatikittanaa?

(Did I get caught?)

I instinctively leaned back against the wall behind me, placing my hands near my chest, and lowered my gaze to his veined arms, unable to muster the courage to look at his bare upper body.

The way his removed black shirt hung lazily on his left shoulder, cascading over his bare chest, casually, made my breath catch.

Uff! He was hot as hell.

And that was exactly why my distracted gaze caused me to slip, landing with a painful thud on my back.

I wasn't ready to risk his teasing by accidentally letting my gaze wander to any inappropriate areas of him.

Naan onnume nenaikala naalum en kannu thaanaa pogudhu. Naan enna pandradhu?

(Whatever I do, my eyes betray me. What can I even do?)

I whined inwardly.

However, my thoughts scattered the moment he leaned closer. His warm breath fanned over my lips, and before I could react, my lower lip was caught between his, his gentle suckle sending a shiver through me before he bit down lightly, teasingly.

And he pulled back just as quickly, leaving me trembling and breathless.

But before I could steady myself, a gasp escaped my lips as I felt his hands begin to trail upward, slipping beneath my saree and tracing over my legs, igniting every nerve in their path.

My voice stammered as I hurriedly asked,

"Pa.. prof.. enna pandrel?"

(Pa..prof.. what are you doing?)

His hands didn't stop until they reached my knees, his gaze locked intently with mine, and I froze under its intensity. But as his palms firmly pressed against my knees and he pulled me closer in one fluid motion, I gasped audibly, my hands instinctively flying to his shoulders for support.

And in an instant, our lips crushed against each other, making my eyes widen in shock as the tension between us surged.

He pulled his lips away from mine, creating a small distance between us, leaving me dazed and as I watched in silence, he removed his shirt off his shoulder and gently placed it over the counter beside us.

Then, without a word, he took my left hand in his and began to kiss it-starting from my inner palm, moving to my fingers, their tips, nails, knuckles, the back of my hand, and finally my wrist. Each kiss was open-mouthed and lingering, igniting a trail of warmth with every touch.

I stared at him in a haze, my toes curling with every kiss, anticipation coursing through me as his lips continued their tender ministrations on my hand.

With his eyes softly closed, his lips trailed wet kisses along the length of my inner forearm, inching downward to my elbow, where he added a teasing lick.

I shivered at that, my breath hitching, and instinctively clenched my free hand over his shoulder, surrendering to the moment.

And my eyes fluttered shut slowly inhaling his fragrance, as his lips brushed over my blouse-covered shoulder before finding their way to the bare one.

I gasped softly, my head arching back as his lips traced along my collarbone, lingering there before moving to my throat. He placed a gentle lick, and I gulped audibly, my breath catching.

He continued to my other collarbone, then to my bare shoulder, trailing back to the blouse-covered one and down my arm with deliberate precision.

A damp lick on my bicep sent shivers through me, followed by another along my elbow, before he kissed his way down my forearm to my wrist.

With the same intensity, he shifted to my other palm, which rested on his shoulder, taking it in his hand. He showered every inch of my skin with slow, open-mouthed kisses, leaving no space untouched.

My body trembled uncontrollably under his touch, my lips parted as I struggled to steady my breathing.

Before I could fully process the sensations, a gasp escaped me again, quickly transforming into a loud moan, as he suddenly pinned both of my hands above my head against the wall. My eyes widened in shock before squeezing shut as his warm lips trailed down to my waist. He kissed me there with such intensity that I felt my grip on reality slipping away.

What the hell?

I tried hard to wriggle free from his grip, his one hand pinning both of my wrists above my head against the wall, but his hold was firm. Before I could protest, he leaned closer, his face now directly in front of mine, and growled in a voice so raw it sent a shiver through me,

"Don't fucking stop me, Seetha. I need you. Please"

I gulped hard at the intensity of his tone, my heart racing as I stared into his eyes. His entire body seemed tense, his muscles straining under his skin, while beads of sweat glistened along his neck, trailing down to the visible expanse of his chest.

What was he going to do? Why was he asking me not to stop him? And why did his words sound so desperate?

I wondered.

But when his eyes blinked once, I froze, seeing the raw desire burning within them. The way his gaze darkened as it locked onto me made me gulp, and I instinctively stopped wriggling against his hold.

Noticing my stillness, he smirked before leaning in and pressing a quick, hard kiss to my lips. The force made them part on their own, leaving me gasping as he pulled back.

Then, without missing a beat, he descended down towards my waist again, and I shut my eyes tightly, gulping as his lips made contact.

A soft moan escaped me,

"Mmm"

When he licked the side of my left waist, hitting the sensitive spot that always made me ticklish-even to my own touch.

I arched back involuntarily, feeling his thorough kisses between the slow, deliberate licks. The sensation was overwhelming, and my breath hitched further when I hissed softly as he bit the same spot, leaving a sting that only heightened the moment.

His grip on my wrists finally loosened, and I gasped for air as he released them. But before I could process it, his hands found my thighs over my saree, holding them firmly as he moved higher, his lips exploring my stomach with a mix of hard kisses, teasing licks, and sharp bites.

My hands clenched over the counter in response, my body squirming at his every move. Soft moans spilled from my lips, beyond my control, as his ministrations continued, leaving a wet trail that sent my senses spiraling.

But I gasped sharply, my hands flying to his shoulders in an attempt to push him away, though my body betrayed me, a loud moan escaping my lips. My breath hitched as his fingers curled around the waistband of my saree, tugging it down slightly. The next moment, his lips found their way to my navel, pressing a loud kiss there.

The low hum that escaped his throat-a deep, guttural sound, almost like a moan-threw me completely off guard.

The vibration against my skin sent shivers coursing through my body, leaving me frozen in place, caught between resisting him and surrendering to the pull of the moment.

And I felt my heart skip a beat, utterly overwhelmed, as his tongue poked inside my navel. A whimper of pleasure escaped my lips as my trembling hands weakly pushed against his shoulders, forcing my back against the wall. But, despite my attempts to push him away, he pressed himself closer with every movement, slipping his hands beneath my butts and gripping me firmly, kneading them in between, holding me in place, making me hiss.

His lips and tongue trailed over my belly with unrelenting focus, leaving no inch untouched. My saree, once neatly draped, was now a crumpled mess beneath his hands. My mind spun, consciousness clouded by the intensity of his touch, and as his ministrations continued, one undeniable truth settled in-I was lost in him, completely undone and.. wet.

I am wet.. in the literal sense.

"Babe"

I heard his voice faintly, as I was lost in the overwhelming sensations of his tongue, teeth, and lips creating magic on my skin. I winced, a moan escaping my lips,

"Ah!"

When his teeth grazed and left a mark above my navel, driving me to the brink of madness. I hummed, swallowing hard to soothe my dry throat, only to hear him call again,

"Seetha"

My neck arched back, my head tilted to face the ceiling as I pressed one palm against his shoulder while the other fisted in his hair, drowning in pleasure.

"Shall we eat?"

He asked, before licking my navel again. A breathless moan slipped out,

"Ahmm..."

And, processing his words slowly, I shakily hummed.

"Ummhmm"

He placed a final, deliberate kiss on my navel, leaving me breathless. Then, straightening up, he pulled my face down by pinching my chin and he said,

"Kanna thora"

(Open your eyes)

I was shy, my face flushed completely red from the warmth of his ministrations. But when he pinched my chin harder, I hissed softly and reluctantly opened my eyes, knowing he wouldn't let me go otherwise.

He smirked, staring into my dazed eyes, and asked,

"Shall we...?"

I blinked, gulping, as he grazed my lower lip with his thumb, then traced my lips before looking back into my eyes, finishing,

"Eat?"

I blushed profusely, weakly pushing him away, my trembling hands on his chest. He chuckled, releasing my thighs. I glared at him, quickly averting my gaze before attempting to jump down from the counter.

But my legs suddenly gave away, and I stumbled right into his bare upper body. He caught me swiftly, his arm wrapping securely around my waist to steady me.

Perumaaley! En kaalukku ennaachu?

(Oh God! What happened to my legs?)

I wondered, completely baffled by how my steadiness betrayed me.

But I squealed slightly, surprised when he lifted me in his arms again and walked out of the kitchen. He gently placed me on the dining table chair, leaned forward, placing one hand on the chair behind me and the other on the dining table in front of me, and said,

"Stay here. Naan kondu varen"

(Stay here. I'll bring it)

I smiled softly at him, gulping. He smiled back, placing a tender kiss on my hair partition before turning and heading back inside the kitchen.

As soon as he left, I immediately clutched my abdomen and let out a slight shriek of pain.

"Uff! Enna ipdi valikardhu?"

(Uff! Why does it hurt like this?)

I murmured and then stood up to head into the restroom to do the most irritating thing-changing my pad.

When I came out, still feeling a stinging pain on the right side of my abdomen, I walked over to him. He was seated on the chair waiting for me, and I took the seat beside him.

Clutching his arm with both of mine, I leaned on his bicep, closed my eyes, feeling his warmth and comfort.

"Ennaachu, ma?"

(What happened, ma?)

He asked gently.

"Cramps"

I murmured, my voice barely audible.

He caressed the top of my head lovingly and placed a soft kiss there before saying,

"Seri, saapdu. Saapdaama irukka koodaadhu. 2.30 varaikum yen saapdaama irukka? Vaa"

(Alright, eat. You shouldn't be like this without eating. Why haven't you eaten until 2:30? Come)

But instead of responding, I clung to him tighter and shook my head, refusing to eat.

I didn't want food. I was feeling clingy suddenly. I wanted to cuddle with him. I wanted him to pamper me right now.

"Ma, you must eat. Venaam laa sollaadha. Endhiruchukko"

(Ma, you must eat. Don't say no. Get up)

But I buried my face in his bicep, refusing to listen, and whined,

"Mm nekku venaam"

(Mm, I don't want it)

I heard him go silent for a moment, and then I felt his hands working on something while I kept my face buried in his bicep, seeking only his warmth.

But, when he gently made me unwrap my arms, I whined in protest, but my lips curled into a small smile when he pulled me into his chest, wrapping his arm securely around my shoulders.

I melted into his embrace, and then I noticed his hand with food placed in front of my mouth.

"Ah"

He said softly, waiting for me to take the bite.

I grinned, looking up at him with a glint of mischief, and opened my mouth, mimicking him,

"Ah"

He chuckled and fed me, and I chewed the food comfortably while laying on his bare chest, feeling utterly pampered and cherished.

He was pampering me, and that made me so happy. I sat there comfortably, enjoying my food in his hand, listening to his heartbeat.

His voice broke the calm as he asked in between,

"Saaptiyaa? Mulungeetiyaa? Odhikki vakkaama saapdu ma olunga. Saapdaama ippo utkaandhu kai valikudhu kaal valikudhu'nu. Olunga ini 12.30 or 1 o'clock kulla saapudra"

(Did you eat? Did you swallow? Eat properly without stuffing it all at once. Don't just sit hereafter like this complaining that your arms and legs are aching without eating. From now on, make sure to eat by 12:30 or 1 o'clock at least)

Advice. Advice. Advice.

I rolled my eyes, but a small smile tugging at my lips, and my gaze fell on his chest mole. Mischievously, I grinned and moved my hand towards it, brushing it with my index finger.

And I quickly pulled my hand back, pretending it was an accident, but he caught on immediately.

"Kedi, kai vachuttu summa iru. Mulungeetiyaa?"

(You little mischief maker, keep your hands still. Did you swallow?)

He whispered, narrowing his eyes at me.

I nodded quickly, opening my mouth like his good girl, and he fed me again. I smiled, chewing happily, feeling completely cared for.

Soon, he fed me an entire plate of food, and said,

"Seri, neraa utkaaru. Naan handwash panneetu varen"

(Alright, sit properly. I'll just wash my hands and come back)

But I shook my head, grabbing his hand and placing it back over my shoulder stubbornly.

"Mhum"

I murmured, refusing to let him leave and then felt him lean back, wash his hands on the plate, and casually grabbed my saree pallu to wipe his hands and lips, making me smile softly.

I glanced up at him, and he smiled back, wiped my lips as well, before pressing a gentle kiss on my forehead.

"Nalaiku review irukku marakala'le?"

(Tomorrow, there's a review, right? Don't forget, okay?)

There, he comes again to his strict professor mode.

I pouted and replied,

"Marakala, marakala"

(I won't forget, I won't forget)

"Ellaam correct'ah solleerviyaa? Illa innorukkaa solli tharnumaa?"

(Will you say everything correctly? Or should I explain it once again?)

"Naan solleerven pa. Nyaabagam irukku"

(I'll say properly. I remember everything)

I said confidently.

He nodded.

"Hmm. Restaurant job venam'nu solleetu vandhutta'nu kelvi patten?"

(I heard you quit our restaurant job?)

I leaned my cheek on his chest and sighed,

"Aama. Naan yen anga irukken'nu enakke therila. Romba naal leave dha podrom. Adha theva illaadhadhu yedhukku nu quit panneeten"

(Yes. I don't even know why I was there. We've been taking leave for so long. I thought it was unnecessary and took this decision)

He hummed thoughtfully and said,

"Adhu ennamo seri dha. Romba aasaya join pannom. Ippo adha olunga panna maatengurom"

(That's okay, I guess. We went there with such excitement. Now we aren't doing it properly)

"Neenga ponga"

(You go)

I said.

"Illa ma, naanu varla nu solleeten"

(No, dear. I already quit)

He admitted casually.

I pulled back slightly, shocked, and looked at him with a frown.

"Yen? Neenga pogalaam'le?"

(Why? Can't you go?)

"Mood illa. Namma coaching ground work vera konjo irukku. Adha paakuradhukkum, college poitu varadhukkume time correct'ah irukku. 2nd year'ku sem vera vara pogudhu. Romba busy aayiduven. Also, JEE exams vara pogudhu, online tutoring'uhm busy aagum. Enakku time kedaikaadhu"

(I'm not in the mood. There's some work at our coaching ground. The timing is just right to manage that and attend college. The second year's semester is coming up. I'll get really busy. Also, with the JEE exams coming up, online tutoring will keep me occupied. I won't have time)

"Ohh. Appo tutoring'le naraya earn panna mudiyumaa'nu paarunga. Nekku epdiyaadhu indha job permanent aayiduchunna nallaarukum. Nekku adhula half anount podhum. Micha amount naan namma ground'ku podalaam'nu irukken"

(Ohh. Then let's see if tutoring earns well. If this job becomes permanent for me, that'll be good. Half the amount is enough for me. I'm thinking of using the rest for our ground)

I said, trying to sound practical.

"Hey. Enna nee ipdi solra?"

(Hey. What are you saying?)

He asked, bending down to meet my gaze.

"Aama. Anniku family'ku, enakku'nu mattum dha yosichen. Ippodha family'eh neenga aageetinga'le? Appo ungalukkum en share kudukkanum le? Appa, amma'ku naan thaniyaa paathukuren"

(Yes, I thought about only the family and me back then. But now, you've become my family. So, I should share with you too, right? As for dad and mom, I'll take care of them)

"Naan kekkave illaye, ma"

(I didn't even ask, ma)

"Kekkala'naa naan kudukka koodaadha? Idhu nammaloda ground'nu neenga sonninga'le?"

(Just because you didn't ask, should I not give it? Didn't you say this is our ground?)

I asked, pulling back from his chest and staring at him intently.

He looked at me for a few seconds and said,

"Okay. Let's discuss that later. Ippo nee poi konjo rest edu"

(Okay. Let's discuss that later. For now, go and take some rest)

He tucked my hair strands behind my ear and cupped my neck, asking,

"Anga vilundhadhu valikala?"

(Does it hurt where you fell?)

I blinked, suddenly remembering it, and shifted in the chair before grinning as he winked at me.

"Professor sir... Doctor'ku edhaadhu padichinglaa enna?"

(Professor sir.. did you study for a doctorate or what?)

I teased.

But, he leaned closer and replied,

"Anga vali poga doctor'ah irukkanum'nu illa, ma. Purushanaa irundha podhum. Unnoda yendha vali epdi edukanum'nu enakku theriyum, di"

(It's not just a doctor who can heal the pain there. If he's a husband, that's enough. I know how to handle your pain, dear)

I blushed at his tone and pinched his cheek with its heavy beard and shook his face. He winced, making me giggle as I said,

"Romba romba mosam"

(Very, very bad)

"Huh? Evlo periya help panneerken. Naan mosamaa?

(Huh? I've done such a big help to you. But, am I bad?)

He asked with mock offense.

"Aama. Pervert max"

I shot back teasingly.

He smiled and leaned in further, placing one hand on the backrest of the chair and the other on the dining table, caging me like before, and said,

"Can't help. When my fiancée is sexy max"

He winked at me, making my eyes widen in shock. I whined and quickly palmed my face as he laughed.

Then, I felt him wrap his arm around my waist, lifting me in his embrace effortlessly.

I looked at him with wide eyes as he grabbed the plates with his other hand and held me securely against him.

He twirled us once, making me laugh and cling to him, wrapping my hands around his neck. He finally set me down on his feet, jammed between him and the sink.

Standing on my toes over his feet, I watched as he washed the plates. I leaned forward, kissed his neck softly, and he murmured,

"Mmm. That's good"

Smiling, I continued to kiss his neck, trailing soft kisses along his throat and to the other side of his neck. He kept washing the dishes, his focus divided between me and the task at hand.

But he stopped me, caught my shoulders, and made me stand beside the kitchen entrance frame. He then asked,

"Carrot juice?"

I narrowed my brows and then gave him a thumbs up. But, when he leaned in, smiling, I quickly tied my hands behind me, refusing.

He raised his brows and pinched my waist. As I shrieked, he blew me a kiss and turned around, walking towards the kitchen counter, leaving me smiling.

He then grabbed his black shirt from the counter, and as I waited for him to wear it, I blinked in shock when he moved the shirt behind him, grabbed the sleeves, and tied it around his waist.

I stood there, dumbfounded, watching his muscles flex, his biceps bulging. His lower lip caught between his teeth, focusing on his task, and a heat surged through me, making me warm and causing me to clench my thighs.

He's going to steal my breath forever.

Leaning against the door frame, I watched as he grabbed the fresh carrots, rinsed them under the running water, and placed them in a clean bowl.

Taking one carrot in his hand, fresh from the Ooty garden with its leaves still intact, he twirled it before biting the tip. I gulped, crossing my arms tightly over my chest as I stared at him, unable to look away.

On his next bite, he held the carrot between his teeth, checking the rest for cleanliness. It wasn't until he noticed me watching that I averted my gaze, turning to leave.

But, before I could step away, he moved towards me, stopping just beside me. Turning to face him, I leaned back slightly, my hands fisting nervously behind me. He had placed one hand on the doorframe above my head, his other hand still holding the carrot.

Slowly, he raised it towards me. The edge of the carrot, which had been between his teeth moments ago, brushed softly against my jawline and moved down my neck, sending a shiver down my spine.

I stared at him, my chest heaving as his intense gaze followed my rising chest before slowly trailing up to my lips, the carrot tip grazing my chin.

Leaning closer more than before, he traced the carrot along my lower lip, then my upper lip, making me gulp and part my lips instinctively.

Without breaking eye contact, he pressed the carrot between my lips. My breath hitched as he gently twirled it inside my mouth-first over the tip of my tongue, then along its surface, moving to one side before bringing it back to the center.

Feeling a surge of mischief to stop his acts, I clamped my lips around the carrot, tightening my hold on it.

But, his distressed expression made me frown, and he pulled the carrot from my mouth, tossing it onto the counter. And, in a swift motion, he pushed me against the fridge near the entrance, his lips crashing into mine in a fierce kiss.

I didn't know how many times we had shared our desperate kisses today, but once again, I melted into him, granting him full access as always, unable to resist the passion we shared.

The fact that we turn into kissing brats whenever we get even a moment of alone time is one of my favorite things about us.

These are something I know I'll cherish forever, even when we someday have our own kids running around, showering us with their baby kisses.

"Mmmm. Seetha, you're irresistible"

He groaned against my lips, his voice heavy with longing.

I blushed fisting his hair, but, before I could respond, he shifted our position, pressing me against the wall.

His hand pinned my wrists above my head in his signature move, while his other hand began exploring my upper body over my saree, the soft pressure of his touch making me forget everything.

I felt myself float away, completely lost in the depth of his love for me.

And I must say, he's as irresistible to me as I am to him.

My undeniably irresistible professor, who's all mine.

Only mine!

**********

TBC...

Epdi irundhuchu?

Yaaraadhu avangala niruthunga da kalyanam nadakura varaikum 🌚

Important! As I said before, I've been getting busy lately, so I've come up with a plan for the updates. That is, I will update Invisibly Visible one week, and then King of Fire the following week.

Weekly updates!

Also, however, if I get some free time, I'll try to publish the new chapters as soon as I finish typing them.

Enna soldringa? Deal'ah? No deal'ah?

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