The Arranged Marriage

Part 5

A week later, Sivakkami and Anandasivan were in their new kitchen boiling milk. As soon as they finished the puja they heard the sound of the lorry. Their shipment from the harbor had arrived as well. The men were slowly bringing in the rest of the household items. With every item that was brought in Achchu glanced at Sivu for directions on where she wanted what. In a couple of hours the men unloaded everything and left happily with the generous tips. Sivu looked around the house and was happy with the way everything was placed. Just then she felt Achchu right behind her. She could feel his breath and she closed her eyes. She could sense the butterflies in her stomach. He slowly whispered, "Veedu pidichirukka?" She didn't turn around fearing his close proximity but just said, "hmmm". He continued, "Naaliki naan office join pannanum. Nee thaniya iruppiya? Bayapada maatiye?" She replied still without turning around, " um hmmm". He smiled, "Unakku oru present vachirukken aana nee enna thirumbi paatha thaan tharuven." She quickly turned around excitedly and asked, "ennadhu ennadhu?" But realizing how close he was, she started to walk backwards till she hit the wall. He took a small package and handed it to her. She quickly grabbed and and unwrapped. She squealed in excitement and in her excitement, hugged him and said, "Ayyo pocket radio. Naan idha evvalo miss paninen theriyuma" and she was focused on it like a little kid with a new toy. He though, was in shock, that she had actually hugged him and did not even realize it.

Just then door bell rang. Achchu opened the door and Geetha didi entered. She was the helper at his brothers house as well. She walked in saying, "Bhou di kothaay?" (Where is the sister) She smiled looking at Sivu and said, "Khoob sundor. Aami thomarke shob shikiye debo. Teek ache?" (you are so pretty. Don't worry I will teach you everything). Achchu was glad to see Geetha didi. She promised to finish her work at his brothers house in the morning and come by to help Sivu. Since Sivu did speak and understand Hindi, she knew they could manage.

From the very next day, a new routine started and a new life for Sivu. She was excited about not only the new city and culture but she was very quick in making friends. Geetha didi ended up being her friend, philosopher and guide. More than a maid, she became a friend to her.

As of Achchu, he was head over heels in love with his wife but she was taking her time. He knew though that once her excitement with the surroundings subside, she will start noticing him.

Let's wait for the romance to happen gradually and organically.

Brinda Subramanian