Hidden Longing's

36.intoxication

Arjun pov:

The pelli kuthuru ceremony was unfolding perfectly, every moment infused with tradition and joy. The hall was a canvas of vibrant colors, filled with the sweet scent of jasmine and the harmonious sound of laughter and blessings. Vasudha  looked resplendent, surrounded by the love and warmth of family and friends.

But amidst all the celebration, my attention was constantly drawn to Gayathri. After so long, seeing her in that green half-saree was like a dream. The way she moved, the way she smiled—everything about her held a spell over me. Someday, this girl will have such power over me that I'll gladly be like her shadow, following her everywhere. And truth be told, I'm happy to be like that.

Her introversion seemed to be melting away, and I loved watching her bloom. She fed me breakfast without a second thought, even with my friends around. That small act spoke volumes about her growing confidence and comfort with me. We clicked pictures, capturing these beautiful moments, and I silently took a few of her just for myself, to cherish when she's not around.

Later, she pulled me quietly to the back, away from the crowd. "Bava, let's take a selfie," she said, her eyes twinkling. I smiled and nodded, loving her playful side.

After the selfie, I couldn’t resist. "Now I want a proper kiss from you," I said, watching her cheeks turn crimson as she looked ready to run. Before she could, I grabbed her wrist and gently pinned her against the wall.

She hung her head low, avoiding my gaze. "Really, nanna, we've kissed so many times. Why are you shy now?" I teased, lifting her chin with my hand. Her dark brown eyes, filled with a mix of surprise and desire, met mine, and they were intoxicating.

I kissed her right eye, then her left. She looked at me, and I kissed her nose, then her right cheek, followed by her left. Lifting her face more, I kissed her chin, then her forehead. One hand traced the curve of her waist while the other cupped her neck, lifting her face towards mine.

"Look at me," I whispered. She did, her eyes holding a thousand emotions. I leaned in, my lips brushing against hers softly at first, then more deeply. She responded, her hands clutching my shirt, pulling me closer.

In that stolen moment, everything else faded away. The ceremony, the guests, the laughter—all became a distant murmur as we lost ourselves in each other. Finally, we broke the kiss, breathless and smiling.

I brushed my fingers against her lips. She smiled, her blush deepening, and we knew we had to return to the others, but for now, this was our little piece of eternity.

When we were lost in our eye contact, I heard the unmistakable click of a camera. We turned to see Tarun, Anirudh, and Adithya standing there, grinning like mischievous schoolboys. Gayathri quickly escaped, her face flushed with embarrassment. I glared at the trio, making them hesitate and smile nervously.

"Sorry!" they said in unison before scurrying away. I shook my head and made my way back inside.

That's when a familiar, chirpy voice pierced through the air. "Hi, Arjun!" It was Shreya, her presence as unwelcome as ever. Everyone's eyes turned toward us. I gave her a brief nod and went to sit with my friends. Shreya, ever the social butterfly, immediately started taking pictures with Vasudha and mingling closely with my family. I wondered when she'd finally get the hint and stop trying so hard to fit in where she wasn't wanted.

As we were engaged in our conversation, Shreya's voice cut through the air again, this time louder. "Gayathri, bring tea for me," she said, her tone more of a command than a request, though she wore a smile. My Gayathri, ever gracious, gave a polite smile and went to the kitchen.