The Path to Forever

Part 13

They sat down, their legs tangled under the softness of the blanket, and Karan wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer. The fabric of her dress was cool against his skin, the warmth of her body a comforting presence. Tejasswi leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder, as they watched the stars above, their hearts beating in unison with the soft music playing in the background.

The candles flickered, casting a warm glow on their faces, the shadows playing across their features. Karan brushed a stray strand of hair from her face, his touch feather-light. "I never thought I'd find someone like you," he murmured, his voice a gentle rumble in her ear. "Someone who makes me feel complete, who makes me want to be a better man."

Tejasswi looked up at him, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Neither did I," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I always thought love was something that happened in movies, that it was too good to be true."

Karan leaned in, capturing her lips in another gentle kiss. "Well, it's real," he said with a soft smile. "And it's happening to us."

Tejasswi nodded, her heart racing. "I know," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "It's like a dream."

They sat together on the plush blanket, the pillows surrounding them like a fortress against the world. Karan's arms remained firm around her waist, his hands resting on the small of her back. The warmth of his body was a comforting presence against the cool night air, and she felt the heat of his skin through the thin fabric of her dress. Tejasswi leaned into him, feeling his heart beating in time with her own.

He tipped her chin up, his eyes searching hers. The soft light from the candles painted his features with a warm glow, making him look like a mythical creature come to life. "I want to make you happy," he said, his voice a gentle promise. "I'll do anything for you."

Tejasswi felt her heart swell, the love for him growing stronger with every beat. She placed her hand on his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart beneath her palm. "You already do," she murmured, her voice filled with a warmth that matched the glow of the candles. "Just by being here with me."

Karan pulled her closer, his hand sliding down to the small of her back, pressing her against him. He kissed her again, their bodies fitting together as if they had been made for this moment. The fabric of the dress was the only barrier between them, a flimsy shield against the passion that threatened to consume them. Tejasswi felt the heat of his body, the strength of his arms, and she knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be.

"How can you be so perfect?" she asked, her voice breathless and filled with wonder.

Karan chuckled, the sound a rumble in his chest. "I'm not perfect," he said, his eyes searching hers. "But I'll strive to be for you."

Tejasswi felt a warmth spread through her at his words, a warmth that seemed to melt away any lingering nerves or fears. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely audible.