Nitham Oru Kadhal

Chapter 9

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets of the city, Arjun and Mithra revved up their Royal Enfield bike, ready to embark on a journey that would mark the beginning of their new life together. Mithra's excitement was palpable as she swung her leg over the bike, feeling the familiar rumble of the engine beneath her. It had been far too long since she had ridden on the back of Arjun's bike, and the thrill of the open road filled her with joy.

Arjun could sense Mithra's happiness as they weaved through the crowded streets, the wind whipping through their hair. He reached out to gently squeeze her hand, offering her a reassuring smile as they made their way towards the wedding shopping destination. Mithra couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia as memories of her beloved brother Surya flooded her mind. It had been twelve years since he had passed away, but the pain of his loss still lingered, especially on days like today when she wished he could be there to share in her happiness.

"Maa , nee ok va ?" Arjun's voice broke through her thoughts, his concern evident in his eyes as he glanced over at her.

Mithra nodded, blinking back the tears that threatened to spill over. "Haan ok .... onnula just missing my anna ," she admitted softly, her voice catching in her throat.

Arjun tightened his grip on her hand, offering her a comforting squeeze. "I know, sweetheart. But I'm sure he's watching over you, feeling proud as ever," he said gently, his words like a soothing balm to her wounded heart.

With Arjun's support, Mithra found the strength to push aside her grief and focus on the joyous occasion ahead. As they arrived at the shop, they were greeted by the sight of their parents and relatives, all gathered together in anticipation of the upcoming festivities. Mithra's eyes lit up with excitement as she spotted her mother and father, their faces beaming with pride.

"Come on, let's go pick out the perfect saree for our wedding  and engagement dress," Arjun said, his voice filled with excitement as he led Mithra towards the saree section.

Together, they sifted through the colorful array of fabrics, laughter and chatter filling the air as they debated on styles and designs. With each passing moment, Mithra felt a sense of gratitude wash over her, grateful for the love and support of her family and the unwavering presence of Arjun by her side.

As they finally settled on the perfect attire, Mithra couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. Despite the bittersweet memories that lingered in her heart, she knew that today marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life—one filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a bright future ahead. And as she looked into Arjun's eyes, she knew that together, they could overcome any obstacle that came their way, hand in hand, now and forevermore.

They sat along with their parents and relatives and started to select the perfect saree for her wedding .... The precious Muhurta Pattu ... Mithra was sitting between her mother and her future mother in law who were selecting the sarees ... creating a chaos there ... and also confusing Mithra ....

As the chaos in the saree section reached its peak, with both mothers fervently debating over which saree would suit Mithra best, the poor salesman struggled to keep up with their demands. Mithra couldn't help but feel overwhelmed as the hours dragged on, her patience wearing thin as she tried to keep a smile plastered on her face.

Just when she thought she couldn't take it anymore, Arjun stepped forward, a determined glint in his eyes. Without hesitation, he reached for a delicate light pink Kanchipuram saree, its intricate designs and ethereal beauty catching his eye. With a confident smile, he draped it over Mithra's shoulders, the fabric flowing gracefully around her.

The room fell silent as everyone gazed in astonishment at Arjun's selection. Even the mothers, who had been so insistent on their choices, couldn't help but admire the sheer elegance of the saree. Mithra felt a surge of gratitude towards Arjun, his unwavering support and impeccable taste never failing to amaze her.

With the saree finally chosen, they moved on to the Lehenga section for the engagement dress. This time, Arjun was given full reign to make the selection, his previous choice earning him the trust and admiration of the entire family.

With a keen eye for detail, Arjun carefully sifted through the dazzling array of lehengas, searching for the perfect one that would capture Mithra's heart. Finally, he came across a stunning turquoise blue lehenga, its silver embroidery sparkling in the light. Mithra's eyes widened in awe as she beheld the beauty of the dress, her heart swelling with joy.

"Wow, Arjun, that's beautiful!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her excitement.

The rest of the family members nodded in agreement, impressed by Arjun's impeccable taste once again. With the dresses for Mithra selected, it was now Arjun's turn to choose his attire. With Mithra's input and guidance, he selected outfits that perfectly complemented her dresses, ensuring that they would be the picture-perfect couple on their special day.

As they left the shop, Mithra couldn't help but feel grateful for Arjun's unwavering support and love. With him by her side, she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united in their love and commitment to one another.

As Arjun and Mithra sat in the cozy corner of the ice cream parlor, surrounded by the sweet aroma of freshly made waffle cones and the cheerful chatter of other patrons, Arjun couldn't help but admire the woman sitting across from him. She had a radiant smile on her face as she indulged in her ice cream, her eyes sparkling with joy.

He watched with fondness as Mithra savored each spoonful of her ice cream, a playful glint in her eyes as she licked the melted goodness off her spoon. Despite being on the brink of adulthood, there was a childlike innocence about her that never failed to warm his heart.

Arjun's mind wandered back to the countless moments they had shared together, from playful banter to heartfelt conversations. Mithra had always been a paradox—a delicate balance of maturity and childlike wonder, depending on the situation and the company she was in.

He remembered how she used to call him "Arjuneyyy" with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, her laughter ringing like music in his ears. It was moments like these that reminded him why he had fallen in love with her in the first place—her zest for life, her unwavering spirit, and the way she brought out the best in him.

Lost in his thoughts, Arjun reached across the table to gently brush a stray lock of hair away from Mithra's face, his heart overflowing with love for the woman who had stolen his heart.

"Mithra," he said softly, his voice filled with tenderness, "you never cease to amaze me. You're like a ray of sunshine, brightening up my darkest days."

Mithra looked up at him, her eyes shining with affection. "And you, Arjun, you're my rock. The one who's always there for me, no matter what. I don't know what I'd do without you."

In that moment, as they sat together in the warmth of the ice cream parlor, surrounded by the simple joys of life, Arjun knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be—with the woman he loved more than anything in the world. And as they shared a sweet kiss, sealing their love amidst the sweetness of ice cream and laughter, he couldn't help but feel grateful for every moment they had together.

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Indru ithudan mudinthu vittadhu .... oru kutty update innaiku .... 

Naalai sandhippom .....

Till then 

Yours, 

Nandhini ❤️❤️