Chapter 25- Proposal

Two weeks after, on Amrita’s birthday, Shivanesh planned the day with Amrita’s parents. He knows that she came back the night before feeling extremely tired from work and slept early. So he used the night to brief Amrita’s plans on the plan they have for the celebration

The next morning, Amrita woke up with her mother waking her up late in the morning.

“Happy birthday, my daughter,” her mother said giving her a kiss on her forehead.

“Thank you, Amma. What is the time anyway?” Amrit asked.

“It is past 10 am,” her mother told her.

“God. I was really flat. I didn’t realize falling asleep yesterday,” Amrita said as she stretched.

“It is okay. You did seem tired last night when you came back from work. Work getting harder?”her mother said.

“Yeah. Things are starting to pile up,” Amrita told her mother.

“Well, if that is the case, why not we do this. It is your birthday so I will bring you out to get a massage and manicure. To relieve of the stressed muscle,” her mother said.

“That would be really nice. I would love that. Just let me shower and get ready,” Amrita said.

“Sure, I will wait downstairs,” her mother said going out of the room, closing the door on her way out.

Amrita reached out for her found so many messages from her friends and colleagues wishing her for her birthday. But among the many notifications, she could not find any message and calls from Shivanesh. He would usually be the first to wish her.

“Has he forgotten my birthday? Or he just busy?” Amrita asked herself, putting her phone on the bedside table. When she woke up from her bed to head to the shower, her sister and brother burst into her room.

“Happy birthday, Akka,” they both said in their loudest voice.

“Thanks guys,” she said hugging them both.

“Well, we got you presents. Hope you like it. Amma said you got to shower, so we will leave you to it,” Amaran said while Amarika was just nodding to what he was saying. They then passed their presents and left the room.

Amrita opened the gift her siblings got her. Amaran got her a hoodie sweater while Amarika got her a cute pen. She just smiled to herself seeing the presents. After placing them in her cupboard, she went to shower and get ready for the day.

At the living room, Amrita’s mother texted Shivanesh telling him that she was convinced Amrita that they would go for a massage and manicure. What Amrita did not know was that Shivanesh is behind the many things that she was going to experience the whole day.

After showering and getting dressed, both Amrita and her mother head to the spa to get their massage and manicure done. Once they arrived at the spa, the receptionist greeted them and immediately escorted them to their massage rooms. Amrita was still feeling anxious about not hearing from Shivanesh, so she was checking her handphone constantly. Her mother saw that and decided to confiscate her phone for a while.

“I am keeping this for now. You are here to relax. Please don’t think of anything else,” her mother said.

“Okay. You can keep that for me,” Amrita said and went to get her massage done.

#

Shivanesh was busy preparing Amrita’s birthday surprise. He woke up early this morning to head to the event venue he has booked for the surprise. He got his friend to help him with the decorations since the night before. Amrita’s father also came to help. Shivanesh passed a Amrita’s dress and other things to him to pass it to her. Her mother has updated him that they were heading to the spa to get their massage and manicure done. That was one of his birthday gifts to his future wife. Shivanesh does feel bad that he has been ignoring Amrita today. He really wants to speak to her or even text her but he stopped himself to do it because he really wants to give her one of the biggest surprise of her life.

#

After getting her massage and manicure done, her mother brought her for lunch at a luxury Italian restaurant. When she was seated, food was served even before she could order.

“Amma. You already ordered?” Amrita asked her mother, shocked.

“Yeah. With very much research, I found out what you like,” her mother told her.

“You must have asked Shivanesh. You know what, he still has not called me or texted me. He never forgets my birthday and he still has not wished me seeing that half the day has passed.

“Well. Maybe he just caught up with something. Give him some time okay? Enjoy the food. And we can go home,” her mother told her.

When she got home, she was surprised to see her father home as she did not see him in the morning.

“Hi Appa. Where have you been?” Amrita asked her father.

“Well, I am sorry for not wishing you earlier. I went out to get something from someone. It is for you actually,” Amrita’s father said passing the box to Amrita.

Amrita’s mother who was standing behind her had a cheeky smile because she knows what the something was and who the someone was. She was updated by her husband on the progress of her daughter’s birthday surprise. Amrita took the box and opened it. She saw a beautiful baby blue tulle night own with embroidery on the top in the box. There were also another 2 boxes inside. She opened them and found matching jewellery and shoes in them.

“Woaw. These are really pretty,” Amrita said.

“We were hoping you would use it tonight when we go out tonight to celebrate. I know it is quite grand but I think it would look amazing on you and it would suit the concept of the place we are going,” Amrita’s father told her.

“Of course, I would. But, Appa. Where are we going?” Amrita said.

“That is a secret. Happy birthday, child,” Amrita’s father said, hugging her.

“Okay everyone! Time to get ready! Let’s go!” her mother called out loud.

Amrita went up to her room bringing the box along to get ready. Before going into the shower, she checked her phone again but could not find any messages or call from Shivanesh. She tried calling him but was ignore. She was starting to worry if something might have happened to him. She decicde to wait for a while more before panicking and jumping into conclusions.

She changed into the dress and her hair done in a romantic updo. She put on some make up and the jewellery that was in the box. After she was ready, she looked at herself in the mirror. The dress was an a line dress that had a romantic elegant, yet a sweet vibe to it. The jewellery she had on was a simple white stone choker and a small water drop earrings to match. She wondered where her father might have got all these from. Once she was satisfied of how she looked, she went downstairs where her family members were already ready and waiting for her.

“Akka, you look like a princess. Very pretty,” Amarika said to her sister.

“Thank you. I actually feel like a princess too,” Amrita said.

“Alright. Let’s go. We are running late,” Amrita’s father said.

As they all got into the car, Amrita’s father called Shivanesh pretending like he was talking to the restaurant manager.

“Hi. Yes. We are on the way now. We should be there in 20 minutes. Thank you,” and he hung up.

#

Shivanesh smiled after Amrita’s father hung up the call. He did not say anything cause he was worried Amrita might hear his voice and recognize him. He was starting to feel nervous and excited for the surprise tonight. He wore his best suit today and brought his mother and Sumithra along for the celebration. He wanted to propose to the love of his life in front of their family because he and Amrita both adores and values their family so much.

He did all the final check around the venue and made sure everything was in order. After about 20 minutes, he heard a car parked in front of the door. He knew that the time has come, and Amrita was now in front of the door. He quickly took his place at the centre of the hall. He was excited to see Amrita’s reaction when she walks in.

As her father parked his car, Amrita could not help but wonder where they were and what her parents had in their mind. When they all got out of the car, Amrita walked in the venue being the last one to walk in. she was surprised to see the decorations around her. Everything was beautifully decorated with pink and white theme. That was when it made sense to her that her family were all wearing white and pink. As she was looking around, she saw the familiar handsome man she has been missing the whole day. She could not help but melt seeing him in white suit holding a bouquet of white roses.

As Shivanesh walked to Amrita, Amrita’s family took their seats at the table designated for them. Shivanesh could not help but smile brightly looking at his love looking extremely beautiful in the dress he picked for her. Her in blue definitely stand out of the pink and white around her.

“Surprise. Happy birthday, beautiful,” Shivanesh said passing the bouquet of white roses to Amrita.  

“Thank you. You planned all this?” Amrita asked.

“Yes. In fact, I planned your whole day today. How was the spa and lunch?” Shivanesh asked.

“No way. That was you?  You planned it with my mom?” Amrita asked.

“And not to mention how beautiful you look in this dress,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita turned to her parents who were smiling brightly at her. She could not believe Shivanesh planned all this with her parents. “I never knew my parents were amazing actors.”

“You liked it?” Shivanesh asked.

“What is there not to like? So this was your plan when you did not text me or call me the whole day?” Amrita asked.

“Well. I am really sorry about that,” Shivanesh said taking Amrita’s hand and placing a kiss on it.

Shivanesh then turned to everyone else and announced, “Well everyone, it is now time for the birthday girl to cut her cake, right?”

Shivanesh then guided Amrita to the corner of the hall where the cake was placed. Everyone stood around the cake and sang Amrita a birthday song. After cutting her cake, Amrita and the rest of the family sat down to have dinner. Shivanesh has ordered western food for the dinner and got caterers to prepared it exactly how Amrita would like it.

After dinner, Shivanesh excused himself from the table and head to the stage with a guitar in his hand.

“Good evening everyone,” Shivanesh said. “Well, I have another present for the birthday girl.”

Shivanesh then turned to Amrita and said, “Amrita, I don’t know if I have evr told you about this but you have always been the muse behind all my lyrics. Today, I am going to present you with a song that symbolizes my love for you and appreciation of you coming in my life. I hope you like it.”

Amrita looked at Shivanesh on stage and just smiled at him. Shivanesh then started singing, pouring all the love and his emotions in the song. Amrita could not stop from admiring the lyrics and the love Shivanesh has put in the song. By the end of the song, Amrita could feel the urge or crying coming to her as she was very moved by the song. She felt blissed knowing that Shivanesh thought of her as his muse behind the art he has created for the world to hear.

After finishing the song, Shivanesh put down the guitar and took a bouquet with 100 red roses and walked down to Amrita. Once he was in front of her, he held her arm to help her stand up. He then gave her the bouquet which she accepted gladly and gave a light peck on his cheeks. She then placed the roses on the table and turned to Shivanesh. He then guided her to go on stage. Being clueless about what was going to happen, Amrita followed Shivanesh till they stopped in the middle of the stage. Shivanesh then turned to Amrita and slowly got down on one knee.

Amrita was shocked to see Shivanesh on one knee. When Shivanesh took out a small back box and opened it, Amrita saw the most beautiful ring she has ever seen. She finally figured out was going and she was getting misty-eyed.

“Amrita, you have been a vital part of my life. You have given me happiness and taught me the definition of love in many ways. You make me learn to be better man for my self and you that I have come to a point in life where I can never imagine a life without you anymore. I love you so much and wish to spend the remaining time I have in my life with you. I want to build a future with you and grow old together. I want to wake up every morning and you being the first person I think of as you are always the first thing that I think of at the start of my day. Will you do me the biggest favour ever and marry me? Will you please marry me and give me the happiness of a lifetime?” Shivanesh said.

Amrita just started crying out as she never once imagined how happy she would feel to be asked for her hand in marriage. She was overwhelmed with happiness and bliss that without any second thought, she said “Yes” because she too would like to get married to her love and have a life with him.

Shivanesh took out the ring for the casing and put in on Amrita left ring finger silently glad that it fits her well. He could hear cheers and screams from their family member as he got up and hugged Amrita. As he let go of the hug, he asked knows it is very important to ask her something.

“So, you like the ring?” Shivanesh asked.

“I love it. It is so beautiful. Thank you,” Amrita said hugging Shivanesh again.

“No. thank you for making me the happiest man on the planet,” Shivanesh whispered in Amrita’s ear then kissed her forehead.

“I can’t wait to start a life by your side as your wife,” Amrita said as she looked Shivanesh eyes.

“I can’t wait to spend a lifetime with. I love you so much, Amrita,” he said and kissed her. 

p/s: a sequel is available in this link therowdywedsthenerd.blogspot.com

Chapter 24- Plan to Propose

Amrita and Shivanesh has been dating for about 2 years now. Both have grown and flourish in their career and relationship. Shivanesh has made a name in the music industry. Almost the whole country has heard of his work at least once. He even won a few awards for Best Lyricist. Having Amrita there by his side to be a continuous support for him has made him grow into a better person.

Amrita also finished her studies and has found a job in a renowned IT company. Her talent is very much recognized at work. Everyone who works with her is always pleasured to work with her. Her intelligence and skills have allowed her to grow very much in her career. She was even offered to complete a short-term assignment in Australia and has been travelling and learning a lot since then.

Even with such busy schedules, Amrita and Shivanesh always think of each other. Amrita is so happy that even with her travelling a lo for work, Shivanesh never complained. Instead, he has been a supportive boyfriend who is always proud of all her achievements and recognition, regardless of how small they are. Because of his love and support, she feels like she can concur the world. He has made her feel special in every step of the way. Whenever she was having a hard time or bumped into any difficulties, he has always helped her overcome them. He kept his promise that he would always love her, regardless of what she chooses to co.

Amrita’s love for Shivanesh was growing stronger as days goes by as his love for her was beyond anything. Shivanesh always feels invincible whenever Amrita is by his side. Slowly they both were becoming soulmates who loves each other beyond the world.

Shivanesh was starting to slowly feel the urge to wanting to marry Amrita. Every second away from her was torturous to him now. He wants to be able to love her as much as she deserves. He felt like he wants things to finally be definite for the both of them. He decided to propose her in the most beautiful way he could think of as Amrita deserves all the beautiful thing in the world. But first, he wanted to know if Amrita ever any thoughts for marriage had as it was his promise that he will never push her to do something she does not want to do.

 Both Amrita and Shivanesh was supposed to go out for dinner as Amrita just came back from work trip in Philippines. Shivanesh decided to just have a small discussion about marriage with Amrita during dinner just to understand her thoughts on marriage. But he knows he needs to be extra careful with how he puts it so Amrita does not get any clue that he was planning to propose to her. So he decided to speak about his friend who was getting married soon.

He finally brought up the topic when they were having dessert. “You remember my friend, Sanjay?” Shivanesh started.

“Yeah. Your senior who eventually became your friend during college. What about him?” Amrita asked.

“Well, he is getting married next month. He asked me to bring you along. Do you want to go? I have given him an answer yet,” Shivanesh said.

“Yeah. Of course. It would be fun and it was sweet of him to invite me too. I would definitely go with you,” Amrita said.

“I wonder though. What would have made him to want to get married? I mean I never remember seeing a proper happy marriage. Don’t get me wrong. I am not against the idea of marriage, but I don’t really know what to expect or imagine in a marriage,” Shivanesh said.

“I see my parents growing up and they have been the best example to me to what marriage would be. Happiness and love that never ends. Seeing them, I believe the saying that marriage is a blessing. Seeing my parents, I do feel I want to get married,” Amrita said.

“I guess you are right. I mean having someone to be with you and love you till end of time. That sounds nice. On the other side, my mother has been pressuring me into getting married. but I am not very sure,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita giggled. “Your mom is cute.” Amrita then wink and said “Maybe you should,” before standing up and walking towards the exit.

Shivanesh looked at Amrita walking out, shocked of the short signal she just sent him. He smiled to himself as he walked out with her. “I am definitely marrying you,” Shivanesh thought to himself. he is finally sure that it is time he proposed to her. No more waiting.

That night, he started to plan on how he wanted to propose to Amrita. There is so much he wants to. He knows Amrita is a simple girl but he wants to go a bit grand with the proposal cause he cannot help but think that if he was to do the one time in your life proposal he is definitely doing it in a way both of them will never forget.

First of all, he called Amrita’s father. He knows that he this is what he has to do before even planning a proposal. He wants to meet Amrita’s father to properly ask him for his daughter’s hand in marriage.

“Hi, Uncle. Can I meet you tomorrow?” Shivanesh said.

“Yeah sure. Is lunch time okay for you?” Amrita’s father suggested.

“Sure, Uncle. We can go somewhere near your workplace if it is okay,” Shivanesh said.

“Sure. There is an Indian restaurant near my office. We can meet there,” Amrita’s father said.

“Okay, Uncle. See you then. Good night,” Shivanesh said before ending the call.

The next day, Shivanesh arrived 10 minutes earlier than promised. He was so nervous that he could not sleep last night. She was so sure that if he get more nervous then this, he would pee in his pants. He took a few deep breaths to calm his nerves. He felt more nervous than he was when he wanted to ask permission to court this man’s daughter. He waited nervously, saying all the prayers he knows, hoping that things work out well.

After about 15 minutes of waiting at the restaurant, he saw Amrita’s father walk in. Shivanesh was sure he was so close to having a heart attack and loosing his mind because he was nervous. He quickly woke up to great Amrita’s father when he approached the table.

As they say, Amrita’s father asked, “So, why did you want to meet me today?”

“Well, firstly, to have lunch together and discuss something with you. Buy why don’t we order the food first and we can continue after, is that alright?” Shivanesh said and called the waiter. He was hoping that this would help him calm his nerves, but nothing helped at the moment.

After ordering their food, Shivanesh finally decided to just get the conversation he has been nervously preparing for the whole day on and over with as he is so close to having a panic attack at the moment.

“So, Uncle. The reason I called you for a meet is to properly ask you something,” Shivanesh said and looked at Amrita’s father. When he was sure he has the elder’s attention, he continued. “I would like to ask your permission to marry your daughter. I love her so much and grown to love her more and I wish to take our relationship to another level. I can’t imagine a life without her anymore. I wish to now marry her and live with her till end of my life. But that is only if I get a yes from you. I have a lot of respect for you and you are the kind of father I would want to be when I have kids. So your permission to marry your daughter means a lot to me,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita’s father laughed and said, “You are pretty traditional and probably one of the reasons I like you. But you definitely know how to make and old man nervous”. He then continued, “Shiva, as a father, it is very hard for me to see my daughter leave my side and I have to admit, I do get jealous when my daughter loves another man. But also, as a father all I can hope and pray that my daughter would find a guy who loves her as much as I do so he can take good care of her and protect her when I am not in this world. I have seen how much you respect my daughter and love her. I have to admit that I do trust you with my daughter and in these 2 years, you have definitely showed us how much you love Amrita. So if I am ever to get my daughter married, it would be to you, young man.”

“Thank you, Uncle. I promise to do my best to care, love and protect Amrita as her husband,” Shivanesh said.

“So, do you have a plan to ask her?” Amrita’s father asked Shivanesh.

“Yes. I do and I am currently planning. Haven’t decide on how yet. I wanted to ask you permission first before moving forward,” Shivanesh said.

“Well, you have my permission and blessing,” Amrita’s father said.   

After lunch, Shivanesh went back, relaxed and started to make a list of things he needs to do before the proposal. He has decided to propose Amrita on her birthday the next week, after contemplating on when to do it. He wanted to do it soon and felt this date would be the best. He called his sister, Sumithra for help.

“I am planning to propose to Amrita, and I am needing your help,” Shivanesh stopped and smiled when he heard squealing on the other side. He knew his sister has got excited. So, he continued after the squealing stopped. “Thought of going shopping tonight. Are you free”?

“Yes!! Yes!! Oh my God!! I would be honoured to go with you,” Sumithra said.

“Great. I will pick you up from college once I am done with work. Is that okay?” Shivanesh asked.

“Yes. I will wait for you,” Sumithra said before they both ended the call.

After hanging up the call, Shivanesh started doing research on the best places to get the things he needs especially a ring. He went through many websites and did a few phone calls to his close friends to know more.

In the evening, he picked Sumithra at her college and headed to the one place he was sure of getting the ring after much research and recommendation, Diamonds & Platinum. When they went in, Shivanesh straight walked up to a sales lady and told her that he was looking for an engagement ring. He was then seated in front of a showcase which had many beautiful rings arranged in them.

“So, sir. Are you looking for a diamond ring or is there other stones you wish to get?” the sales lady, Joan asked.

“Diamonds would look really good on her. I will get a diamond ring,” Shivanesh said.

“Okay. Is there any specification you are looking for? Size or cuts?” Joan asked again.

“Not so sure on the size but not too big. I think I would go with excellent cut. Something simple and beautiful,” Shivanesh said.

“How about you tell me more about you fiancé and I could help suggest to you some designs,” Joan said.

Shivanesh then briefly told Joan about Amrita. Her personality, her looks, her preference. Anything that could help Joan select the designs of the ring.

After listening to Shivanesh’s explanation, Joan took out 5 designs. She explained each of the ring design and diamond story. Among all the rings, Shivanesh was attracted to a ring with a round diamond on the top with smaller diamond embedded on the top half of the ring. “the round diamong on the ring was called the Queen’s diamond. He was contemplating between that and another ring which was simpler than the one he was attracted to. Knowing that Amrita is a very simple girl, he was afraid that she might not like it.

“Sumi. Within this two, which you think is better?” Shivanesh asked his sister.

“I think this one with the Queen’s diamond on it. The other is too simple. She is your Queen, isn’t she?” Sumithra said.

“I agree. It would look gorgeous on her,” Shivanesh agreed with his sister. He then turned to the sales lady and said, “I will take this one.”

“Good choice, sir. Before I pack it up, let me explain to your about the warranty for this ring,” Joan said and continued to explain everything to Shivanesh. Once she was done explaining, Joan took the ring to pack it in a special box.

While waiting, Sumithra asked, Ëxcellent cut? How did u even know about diamond cuts?”

“I researched on it earlier. Want to get her the best cause she is the best thing that ever happened in my life,” Shivanesh said.

“True. Do you have a plan to how you are going to give her the ring?” Sumithra asked.

“Next Saturday is Amrita’s birthday. I was planning to work with her parents to have a surprise birthday celebration for her and propose to her then,” Shivanesh explained.

“Well. That sounds like a solid plan. What else do you need my help with? I am so excited right now,” Sumithra said.

“After this, I need to choose her beautiful dress for her to wear during the celebration,” Shivanesh said.

That night, with Sumithra’s help, Shivanesh was able to find the ring, dress and shoes for Amrita. They also managed to find a proper venue for them to have the celebration. He ordered flowers and other items he would need next week. Now, all he has to do is fine tune the plan he has and pray that everything moves smoothly according to the plan.

Chapter 23- I love you

The next day, Amrita woke up early planning how she was to confess her feelings to Shivanesh. After all the trouble he went through to assure her that he will try his be to not hurt her on purpose, she feels that he has earned the rights to know how she feels about him. She was definite of her feelings now. She wanted to confess to him tonight, so she texted him.  

Amrita:

Shiva. Can we meet tonight?

Shivanesh:

Surely. Where?

Amrita:

At the playground near my house. There is something important I want to talk to you about.

Shivanesh:

Okay, sure. See you tonight.

Amrita spent the day brainstorming about how can she put her confession in words for Shivanesh to finally know how she feels about him.

Shivanesh was nervous thinking about tonight. Last night he bared his feelings to Amrita hoping very much that she would return it. Even though he was somewhat sure that Amrita does have feelings for him, he was still afraid that he might not have done enough to melt away Amrita’s insecurities and fear. Even with those thoughts in his mind, he pushed them away and decided to keep pursuing Amrita. 

On his way to the playground, Shivanesh stopped by a flourist and got a bouquet of red roses for Amrita. When he reached the playground, he saw Amrita already there looking beautiful in a white floral dress looking at her phone. He just stayed in the car for a while admiring his view. After some time, he got out of the car bringing along the bouquet with him.

“Hi, Amrita,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita looked up and was shocked and stunned when she saw Shivanesh with his working attire hodling bouquet of roses. She knew that he is a very good looking man. But somehow this time he looked like he had quite a bright light around him which makes him look very much attractive. Amrita just smiled to herself. After finally acknowledging her feelings for Shivanesh, she realized that everything feels different. It was nerve wrecking for her to finally confess to the man who was walking towards her now that she in very mush in love with him. Seeing him now made her to be very sure of her feelings.

Shivanesh walked up to Amrita and passed the flower to her. The shy but beautiful smile he saw on his goddess face just melts all the nerves he was having on his way to meet her.

“Thank you. That’s sweet of you,” Amrita said accepting the bouquet from Shivanesh. She wanted to tease Shivanesh a little bit more after the show he pulled off the night before.

“What did you expect coming here that you got me flowers huh?” Amrita asked pretending like she is not sure of why he is here.

“Nothing. Nothing was on my mind. Just wanted to get you flowers. No other reasons,” Shivanesh said nervously fiddling with his fingers.

Amrita giggled looking at the nervous Shivanesh and placed her hand on his nervous hands. Shivanesh who was shocked turned and look at Amrita with a lot of questions in his head.

“I am so so sorry. I have been way too cruel with you. I made you wait so long even when I clearly know how you feel. It was very selfish of me to think only of my insecurities without considering how you might actually feel. I am really sorry,” Amrita said caressing Shivanesh’s cheek.

Shivanesh placed a hand on Amrita’s and smiled at her. “Waiting for you is always wirth it. I have never regretted it at any moment. All the time I was waiting for you, it just gave me more tim to understand you and make me a better man for you. I want to prove to you that I would do everything to keep the promises I made. I don’t ever want to rush or push you into making a decision. I wanted you to build that trust in me because only when you have trust in me is when you would be able to love me,” Shivanesh said.

“Thank you for waiting for me all this time. But I think you do not have to wait any longer because I have decided that when I come back this time, I am definitely going to make a decision and would not let you wait anymore. Right now, I am very sure of my answer,” Amrita said nervously looking down at her fingers as she was trying to recall all the words she thought she would say to Shivanesh.

Seeing her moment of silent, all of a sudden, Shivanesh started having all kinds of bad thoughts running in his mind. He has been waiting so long for the moment where finally Amrita would give him an answer but now, he is afraid to know what Amrita has to say. Before she could say anything else, he interrupted her.

“It is okay, Amrita. Don’t rush and make any decisions. If you want to take more time, I am totally okay with it,” Shivanesh said fast before Amrita say another word.

“But Shivanesh,” Amrita tried to continue but Shivanesh interrupted her again

“I will try harder to show you that you can trust me. Just please don’t say no. I don’t think I can bear with it,” Shivanesh said.

“Where did the confident guy from yesterday went? Why this sudden doubt?” Amrita asked.

“Well, I know I was being overconfident yesterday but somehow now I am not feeling very confident of what you would say,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita decided to just forget about the plan she had mad as she was starting to feel very frustrated so she knew well enough that confession by word cannot be done at this very moment as Shivanesh is constantly interrupting her. So she decide to do it with action. She wanted to stop Shivanesh from saying anything else as she can see that he was panicking on his own. She grabbed his face and kiss his lips fast ad hard.

Shivanesh was caught by surprise. The kiss was short, but he can still feel Amrita’s lips on him even though she has moved away. His heart was beating super-fast that he could not breath anymore and his brain were not functioning anymore.

“Finally, that made you quiet,” Amrita said. “I know you told me that you will only kiss me when I tell you that I love you. But how am I supposed to do so when you keep interrupting me. So I only saw this way to show you that I am very much in love with you,” Amrita continued and looked away from Shivanesh. She waited for some sort of reaction from Shivanesh but when she was not getting any, she started to feel very embarrassed as she kissed him first. “Maybe I should go,” Amrita said as she stood up and was ready to walk away when Shivanesh suddenly held her arm and pulled her to him.

As she came into contact with Shivanesh’s chest, he held her head up and face close to him. “Now, I have no reason for not kissing you,” he said as he closed the gap between them and kissed Amrita.

The kiss was not hard and fast like the previous kiss but slow and gentle. Shivanesh poured out all the love he felt for her in his kiss and the more he kissed her, the more he felt himself exploding inside. His whole body was now numb and all he can feel was Amrita’s lips on his. The kiss got deeper that he even could taste the cherry lip balm she used.

Amrita could feel her head feeling light as a feather and she could hear fireworks as Shivanesh kissed her deeper and deeper. Slowly she felt her legs loosing strength, so she wrapped her arms around Shivanesh’s neck for support and to hold him close, not wanting to end the kiss. As they were starting to get deeper in the kiss, she felt Shivanesh circle his arm around her waist pulling her closer to him. She could feel the heat of his body on hers as they kiss.

After what seem like decades, they stopped and looked each other’s eyes as their forehead rested together. A smile grew on each of their face as his arm wrapped tightly around her waist and hers on his shoulder. Both did not want to be away from the other.

After a moment, realization struck Amrita that thy were kissing in the middle of the playground. Amrita could feel heat creeping up her cheeks. “Shiva, we were kissing in the middle of a playground,” Amrita said hiding her face in Shivanesh’s chest.

“Unfortunately, I have waited to long to kiss you that the location was not really on my mind,” Shivanesh said. He then bent slightly and whispered in Amrita’s ears. “God. I have always wondered how it would feel to kiss you and what the taste of your lips would do to me. Now that I know, I am addicted to it. I waited a long time, but it was definitely worth it.”

Amrita looked up to Shivanesh and asked, “I wonder how you manage to stay very much in control for so long if you wanted to kiss me that much?”

“Girl, you are a gem which is worth every wait. It is the respect and the utmost love I have for you that kept me in control. It was not easy, but I know that it is what I should do. Thank you, Amrita. For coming into my life,” Shivanesh’s said and kissed Amrita’s forehead.

“Thank you for being patient with me and loving me,”Amrita said hugging Shivanesh.

“I love you, Amrita. To the moon and back,”

“I love you too.”

Chapter 22- Confidence

Three months has gone by. And in these 3 months, Shivanesh and Amrita never stopped talking to each other. For Shivanesh, he was sure that his feelings for Amrita was love. And for Amrita, her insecurities were starting to slowly melt. She knows that Shivanesh will always be there for her and he will never treat her like how Suresh treated her. Shivanesh always treated her with respect. He is always supportive of whatever she does or choose to do.

He was now a renowned lyricist who writes lyrics for many famous local musicians. And she was a year away from completing her studies and come home. Shivanesh always checked in on Amrita’s condition. They text as often as they could. Talking to each other seem to be as easy as drinking water. Amrita was starting to build a trust on Shivanesh day by day. But rust alone seem to not be enough for her to go on with the relationship. She was not confident that she is ready for a relationship.

Amrita knows that it is bad of her to make Shivanesh wait for her answer. But then, she is also afraid that Shivanesh would stop waiting for her and moves on with a different girl. Amrita was going home in 2 weeks and meeting Shivanesh was a must- do agenda on the her trip list this time. They have been planning on where they wanted to go and what they wanted to do. Amrita wanted to e sure of her feelings. She wants to be sure because she has decided that if she is not sure, she does not want Shivanesh to wait for her as she is starting to feel selfish about making Shivanesh wait for uncertainties and not pursuing other ladies.

Shivanesh knows that loving someone would need all the patience in the world and he is sue that Amrita is worth all the time and patience in the world. He does not want to force her into a relationship especially when she is not sure, but he does not stop reminding her about how much he loves her. Shivanesh wants to always be the support system for her. He wants to make her laugh when she is not feeling like it and be the shoulder for her to cry on and ears that never endingly listens to everything she has to say.

Two weeks went by fast enough and Amrita was walking out of the Arrival Hall. She was excited to be meeting her family as she misses them a lot. She called her mother while waiting for her luggage to let her know that she has landed, and she would be out in a while.

“Amma, I just arrived. You are here?” Amrita asked.

“Actually, I am not at the airport. But someone else is there to pick you up,” her mother told her.

“Who? Why are you not here?” Amrita asked.

“Someone. I asked for this person’s favour because I had something up suddenly,” Amrita’s mother said.

“Okay. I will see you in a while,” Amrita said feeling slightly disappointed as she was really hoping to see her mother.

                                               

“See you later, child. Love you,” Amrita’s mother said before ending the call.

After collecting her luggage , Amrita walked out still wondering who has her mother sent to pick her up. Amrita stopped her steps when she saw who was waiting for her outside the Arrival Hall.

#

Two days before.

Shivanesh decided to visit Amrita’s family. In his mind and heart, he knows that it is right as a gentleman that he properly seek for her parent’s permission and blessing before courting Amrita. He wants to do everything the proper and night way when it comes to Amrita. She is , for him, a miracle in a thousand years and he would do anything to show her how much she means to him.

Shivanesh was so nervous standing in front of Amrita’s parent’s house. He woke up early to pick the right attire to wear so he would look presentable and proper . He ironed his clothes, shaved and styled his hair well. He wanted to be taken seriously by Amrita’s parent because Amrita Is like life and death issue to him. He took a few deep breath before finally pressing the door bell. Shivanesh was sure that he was going to turn back when he saw Amrita’s father at tho door but his foot was rooted on the floor.

“Yes?” Amrita’s father asked.

“Hi, uncle. I am a friend of Amrita . I have something I need to discuss with you,” Shivanesh said outside the gate.

Amrita’s father came out to open the gate.” Why? Is Amrita okay?” Amrita’s father asked.

“No, uncle. Everything is okay. But I really want to discuss about something else. Can I come in?” Shivanesh asked.

Amrita’s father gave him a weird and curious look before inviting the boy in. Shivanesh was getting more and more nervous as he walks into the house. Once he was inside, Amrita’s father offered him a seat. Shivanash saw Amrita’s mother walking out of the kitchen.

“So. Why are you here, son? Anything important?” Amrita’s father asked.

Shivanesh waited for Amrita’s mother to take a seat next to her husband. He answered once she has seated as he wishes to say it to both of them.

“Uncle, Auntie. Let me introduce myself properly before l start. My name is Shivanesh. I am a friend of Amrita. We meet when we both attended tuition for SPM. I am not sure if you have heard of me from Amrita,” Shivanesh said carefully trying not to sound too nervous.

“Yes, Amrita mentioned to me before. You even want out recently, together right? Nice to meet you, boy,” Amrita’s mother said.

“But you are not here to just introduce yourself, right?” Amrita’s father asked.

“Yes, uncle. You are right. I am actually here to ask for your permission and blessing to properly court Amrita. I know, as parents, you would want to find the best guy for your daughter. I may not be the best in your eyes, but I have been in love with Amrita for a very long time. Don’t worry. I am not a stalker or anything. Amrita knows well of my feelings for her, but she has not reciprocated. It gives me a chance to do things the right way. I am not using thing method to bulldoze my way through. But Amrita is worth millions of diamonds and I want to do everything the right and proper way when it involves her. I love her very much and have very high respect for her. She makes me to constantly want to be a better man for her and for myself. She is m motivation. She is my muse. I am not saying all this to impress you both. But I think you as her parents should now about how I feel for her as she adores and respect you both a lot. So, it is only proper if I seek your permission and blessing to court your daughter. May I have your permission to do so?” Shivanesh said. He was so nervous till his hands were cold and sweaty that he was worried he might forget the script he has been practicing for hours.

“Before we say okay, we need to know more about you. Tell me about yourself,” Amrita’s father told him.

Shivanesh told Amrita’s parents everything they wish to know about him. He told them about his family, education and his job. He opened everything about his life and his feeling towards Amrita. He wants her parents to be confident in him before he moves further with Amrita.

After talking for about 1 hour, Amrita’s father understood about Shivanesh even more. He liked the boy because, regardless of the circumstances thrown to him, the boy has been resilient and comes out of it, he liked the fact that Shivanesh respects his daughter and them that he has come to properly ask for permission and blessing before taking the next step with their daughter.

“Shivanesh, you have my blessing only if you can give me your word that you will keep my daughter happy and not hurt her,” Amrita’s father said.

“I give you my blessing too. But if you ever hurt my daughter, be sure to face my wrath,” Amrita’s mother said.

“Thank you, Auntie. Thank you, Uncle. I promise to try my best to take the best care of Amrita and make her happy.” Shivanesh said. “There is something else I would like to ask. I know Amrita is coming home in 2 days. If it is okay, can I pick her up at the airport?” Shivanesh asked.

“Of course. Just be safe,” Amrita’s mother told him.

#

Shivanesh smiled when he saw the shocked Amrita at the Arrival Hall. It was sure that she didn’t have a clue about him picking her up. Her mother kept the secret well. He slowly walked towards Amrita with his smile growing. He was so happy to see her there.

Amrita could feel her breath stuck on her throat and her heart rate rising as Shivanesh walked to her. Everything was moving in slow motion for her. She does not know why but Shivanesh looked handsome walking towards her. Amrita woke from her trance when Shivanesh touched her hand on the luggage trolley handle.

“Hi Beautiful. How was your flight?” Shivanesh asked.

“Good. Okay,” Amrita cursed to herself when she heard how her voice trembled out of her mouth.

“Shall we?” Shivanesh said while pushing her luggage trolley towards the exit.

Amrita just nodded and followed behind Shivanesh. Her head was a mess since she saw Shivanesh outside the Arrival Hall waiting for her. She was not concentrating about the things around her that she did not realize how close she was walking to Shivanesh until she bumped into the back of his body.

“Ouch,” Amrita said quietly. She felt more embarrassed when she heard Shivanesh chuckle. She was so embarrassed to look at him that she was just looking at the floor.

“Are you okay?” Shivanesh asked turning to her.

Amrita just nodded without looking up.

“If you don’t look at me now, I am going to kiss you,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita got shocked and looked at Shivanesh and regretted it the moment she met his gaze. The way he was looking at her was definitely the look every girl would dream to get and it was not helping her in any ways as she could feel heat creeping up her face.

“Since when were you shy around me? I never knew I could affect the stubborn girl in you like this?” Shivanesh said. He slowly placed his left index finger under Amrita’s chin and lift her head upwads till their eyes met.

“Don’t worry. As much as I really wanna kiss you, I won’t until you tell me you love me too. But don’t make me wait too long because I don’t know how long I can wait,” Shivanesh said.

He slowly let go of her chin and move to hold her right hand while his right hand was pushing the trolley to his car. Amrita could feel her heart turning into a big mess. She felt a different vibe around Shivanesh. He was suddenly this really confident man who is not embarrassed to show the world that he loves her. She caught a glimpse of their intertwined fingers and felt the warmth spreading to her heart.

Shivanesh was so happy to see how his presence and touch could make a tough lioness turned in a loves trucked girl. Even though she does not admit it, Shivanesh knows that Amrita loves him too. But he wants her to admit if herself. Her wants her to say it out loud.

After placing all of the luggage into the bed of the car, Shivanesh and Amrita got into the car. While driving out of the parking, Shivanesh decided to start a conversation.

“You hungry? Shall we eat on the way?” Shivanesh asked.

“Yeah, sure. I am really hungry,” Amrita said.

“Great. What do you feel like having?” Shivanesh asked, glad that Amrita found her voice finally.

“Mamak food, please. I miss late night mamak food,” Amrita said excitedly.

Shivanesh chuckled seeing the excitement in Amrita’s face. “Oh Lord. How much I want to just kiss her right now,” Shivanesh thought to himself. He quickly reminded himself about the promise he made about kissing her only after she has confessed her feelings.

Once her parked near the restaurant, Shivanesh and Amrita got out of the car and walked towards the restaurant. Shivanesh intertwined his fingers with Amrita’s, like it was the most natural thing to do while they walked in the restaurant. Shivanesh caught a glimpse of Amrita’s shy smile as he did so. They picked a table and quickly ordered their food.

“I have something to tell you,” Shivanesh started.

“Before that. Why didn’t you tell me you are going to pick me today? How did you manage to get my mother to keep it a secret from me?” Amrita asked after finally being able to recollect her thoughts.

“Sorry. I planned it with your parents but your shocked face made it all worth it,”Shivanesh said with a chuckle.

“That is bad. Wait. You met my parents?” Amrita asked.

“That was what I wanted to tell you. I met your parents 2 days ago,” Shivanesh said.

“Why? Just to tell them that you want to pick me from airport?” Amrita asked.

“No. not just that. I met them to ask them for their permission,” Shivanesh said.

“Permission for what?” Amrita asked.

“Permission to court you,” Shivanesh said sipping his drink that was just served to him.

“What? Why?” Amrita asked.

“Amrita. You are an amazing lady and I want to do everything traditional and right when it involves you. Now that your parents have given me their permission and blessing, I want to confess to you properly that I love you. I am not using your parents to force you, but I think I should know that I am being very serious with you now. I met your parents not so they would force you into dating me. I met your parents to show to you how committed I am with you and so you become more confident of the relationship we would have once you are sure of your feelings too,” Shivanesh said looking straight to Amrita’s eyes. He was hoping that she feels that seriousness of his feelings to her.

Amrita saw the sincerity of Shivanesh’s heart through his confessions. She does not want to make him wait for long but since her parents know about him now, she wishes to at least have a word with them before making any decisions. Amrita knows what she wants to day. She reached out for Shivanesh’s hand across the table and held them. This made Shivanesh looked at her shocked.

Amrita smiled and said, “Shiva. I understand. Now that my parents are aware of your feelings, isn’t it fair that I also have a word with them?”

“Yes. I totally understand. But I just felt that I should tell you about how I felt and you deserve to know,” Shivanesh said.

Amrita just nodded and smiled. “

“So, tell me about your semester?” Shivanesh said.

They were back to being comfortable about talking to each other. That spoke to each other throughout their time at the restaurant and the drive back to Amrita’s place. Once they arrived, they saw Amrita’s parents walking out to greet their eldest daughter.

“Welcome back, girl,” her mother said pulling her into a bear hug.

“thanks, Amma. I am super tired,” Amrita said while walking into the house.

“So, how was the surprise?” her mother asked.

“About that. We should have a chat once Shiva leaves,” Amrita told her mother while going in.

Far behind, Amrita’s father was helping Shivanesh with Amrita’s luggage.

“Want to come in?” her father asked.

“It is okay, Uncle. It is getting late. My mother might get worried. Besides, I think Amrita would like to talk to you both in private. I would not want to come in between that,” Shivanesh said.

“Thank you for sending Amrita back. Drive safe. Good night,” Amrita’s father said sending Shivanesh off.

“Good night, Uncle,” Shivanesh said driving off. He felt slightly accomplished as today he confidently confess his love for Amrita. Now it is up to her.

As Amrita’s father walked in with her luggage, he saw Amrita sitting at the sofa with his wife, waiting for him to join them. He took a seat next to his wife and now was facing Amrita.

“That boy came here 2 days ago to ask for our permission and blessing to court you,” her father said.

“Yeah. He told me. He also told he that you have granted him permission to do so and gave him your blessing,” Amrita said.

“We did. Wait, Amrita. Is there something wrong? Do you not like him that way?” Amrita’s mother asked worried that they may have made a mistake.

“Frankly. I do like him. Scrap that. I really love him. I have been for a while now. But I was not confident about a relationship. All kinds of questions were going on in my head. What if he is not serious? What if he hurts me? What if he does not like me the way I like him? But today, I am confident that he would give that he would give me nothing but happiness. He would not hurt me, and he will be committed in our relationship because he made a promise with you,” Amrita said.

“Are you okay if I date him?” Amrita asked her parents.

“Yes, dear. We are okay. We just want happiness for you all the time,” her father said.

That night, Amrita planned on how she should confess to Shivanesh. She is now very much sure and confident enough. Shivanesh has buried all her insecurities deep in the ground.