The orange and yellow hues of the morning rays slipped through the blinds and kissed Sanju’s still-sleeping face. She rolled over and snuggled deeper into her duvet. Aryan stepped out of the washroom, fresh and dressed, and walked over to her side.
“Wake up, sleepyhead,” he said gently, brushing her hair away from her face.
It had been a month since Keerthy and Pavi’s wedding to Pradeep and Naren. Now, the family was gathered again for another celebration, Ranjith was tying the knot with Nila.
Devika had already taken Saran to get him ready, leaving Sanju to sleep a bit longer. After all, Saran had kept both his parents awake the whole night with his giggles and endless energy.
By the time everyone reached the wedding hall, it was buzzing with joy. Ranjith, dressed in a cream silk dhoti and shirt, looked radiant as he sat on the decorated stage. Nila, glowing in a rich maroon silk saree paired with traditional jewelry, was escorted to the stage. With blessings from Vishnu and Devika and heartfelt wishes from their friends, Ranjith tied the knot.
Post-wedding, Vishnu and Devika invited Ranjith and Nila to stay in the mansion with the rest of the family. The couples found time for each other, the mansion overflowed with laughter, and little Saran remained everyone’s darling.
Seven Years Later:
Ranjith had now become a partner at ARC. One afternoon, he and Aryan were in the middle of a meeting when Ranjith’s phone buzzed. It was Nila. She never called during work hours unless it was something serious.
His face tensed as he answered the call, and after a few moments, he turned to Aryan.
“Aryan, we have to go. Now.”
Without another word, they drove straight to the mansion. As they entered the living room, they saw Vishnu, Devika, and seven-year-old Saran sitting in silence, all with blank expressions.
They followed their gaze and found Sanju sitting with a grumpy face.
Ranjith and Aryan didn’t waste a second. They rushed upstairs and found Nila standing near a room with their five-year-old son Tharun.
“Where?” Ranjith asked, breathlessly.
“Inside,” Nila replied.
They exchanged a glance and stepped into the room. The soft sound of sobbing led them to the bed. Both knelt and peered under it. Curled beneath the cot, her tiny face buried in her palms, was five-year-old Sara—Aryan and Sanju’s little princess.
“Princess,” Aryan called softly.
“My sunshine, why are you crying?” Ranjith added, his voice full of concern.
Sara sniffled. “Appa… Uncle… You know what happened today?”
“What happened, my princess?” Aryan asked, gently.
Sara looked up with tear-streaked cheeks. “Appa, all my friends have pets… Only I don’t have one…”
Ranjith smiled softly. “What pet does my sunshine want now?”
“I want a kitten…” she whispered.
Aryan chuckled. “My princess wants a kitten? Okay… But Appa and Uncle are sad that our Sara is crying.”
Ranjith leaned closer. “We actually have a surprise… if our sunshine stops crying.”
Sara blinked. “What surprise, Uncle?”
“You’ll see it if you come out,” Aryan smiled.
Sara stretched out her arms, and Aryan scooped her up in a warm hug. Ranjith followed with Tharun in his arms. They all returned to the living room.
“Brother, Appa and Uncle got me a surprise!” Sara chirped.
“Daddy, what is it?” Saran asked excitedly and jumped onto Aryan, who now carried both kids.
“Appa, what about me?” Tharun pouted.
Aryan laughed. “Tharun, it’s a surprise gift for everyone.”
Sanju raised her brows. “You guys are spoiling her. She’s a drama queen. She knows exactly how to get to you.”
“Let it go,” Aryan said, smiling. “She’s just a child.”
“Fine, let’s go see the surprise,” Ranjith added.
They all walked out to the garden where a covered cage stood beside the birds’ enclosure.
Ranjith pointed. “Okay Sara, Tharun, Saran… Go remove the cover.”
The kids ran over and pulled the cloth off the cage. Their eyes lit up in pure joy. Inside were a bunch of adorable kittens—black, white, and grey. The kids squealed, ran back, and threw themselves into a group hug with Aryan and Ranjith.
Nila sighed. “We’re always out of their team.”
“They’ve formed their own gang,” Sanju said with a smirk.
Just then, Maya and Pavi arrived with their daughters Vishali and Mithra—both around Sara’s age. All the kids studied in the same school, and the three girls were even in the same class. Keerthy and Pradeep’s son Karan, who was six, studied in the same school too.
Pavi and Maya carried another cage between them.
Sanju widened her eyes. “Look! Another group has joined to spoil them. God!”
Pavi laughed. “Hey shut up. Mithra and Vishali said Sara cried for a pet, so we got these kittens.”
Sanju rolled her eyes playfully. “Oh my dear goddess… please, go ahead and join their team.”
Maya teased, “So which team are you in? Don’t act so innocent. You knew we’d do this. You just held back so you could blame us later.”
Nila grinned. “Are we caught?”
Sanju smirked. “Let’s pretend we never heard. We should try to be strict… or at least act like it.”
“Okay, okay,” Nila agreed. “But those kittens are so cute. Let’s go watch them first. Later we’ll be strict.”
“Yes,” Sanju chuckled. “You’re right.”
“I just called Keerthy,” Maya said. “She’ll be here soon with Karan. Let the kids play for a while.”
Soon Keerthy joined, and the kids were completely lost in their world, playing with the kittens. The elders settled on garden seats to watch the joyful chaos.
Kowsalya arrived with refreshments for everyone. She gathered the kids and took them inside for snacks and drinks.
Vishnu turned to Aryan. “Aryan, when are you and Sanju leaving?”
“Appa, tomorrow afternoon,” Aryan replied.
“Where are you going?” Maya asked.
Ranjith grinned. “It’s a surprise for Sanju. So… it’s a secret.”
Pavi reminded, “Hey, remember we have a party. Be here on time.”
Aryan nodded. “Sure, sure. We’ll be on time.”
Maya asked, “What about Saran, Sara, and Tharun? I’ll take them with us.”
“Yes, we’re taking them with us,” Pavi agreed.
Devika turned to Maya. “Did Naren and Vivaan call you? When will they return from their business trip?”
Maya smiled. “Amma, they’ll be back for the party.”
Vishnu nodded. “Good. Make sure the arrangements go smoothly.”
Keerthy chimed in, “Don’t worry, Appa. Ranjith bro and Pradeep will handle it.”
Vishnu smiled warmly. “There’s no need to worry when I have all of you.”
After a warm family dinner, Maya and Pavi left with all the kids.
Later that night, Aryan and Sanju returned to their room.
“Are you sure we should leave for this trip?” Sanju asked, curling beside Aryan.
“Yes, my sweetheart. It’s our 10th anniversary. I wanted to take you to Switzerland… but since everyone wanted to celebrate together, we’re going somewhere within the country.”
“Where are we going?” she asked curiously.
“I can’t reveal that, baby. It’s a surprise.”
Sanju rolled her eyes. “We’ve been married ten years and you’re acting like we’re on our first honeymoon.”
Aryan laughed. “If you agree, I’ll take you on a honeymoon every month.”
“Shut up. Dirty fellow,” she giggled and smacked his arm lightly.
Aryan smiled and hugged her close. “Sleep well. You’ll need the energy tomorrow.”
The next day, By late afternoon, Aryan and Sanju boarded their private jet. As they were about to land, Aryan gently tied a blindfold over Sanju’s eyes.
She shivered slightly as she stepped out. “Aryan, it’s freezing! Where are we?”
Aryan wrapped a coat around her and rubbed her arms to warm her. They got into a car and reached a location shortly. Aryan carried her bridal-style out of the car.
“Aryan, where are you carrying me? It’s so cold here!” she said, shivering.
He placed her down gently and removed the blindfold. Sanju gasped as her eyes took in the snow-covered mountains.
“We’re in Shimla,” Aryan said with a proud smile.
“I love you, Aryan. This is lovely,” she whispered, eyes wide with awe.
He handed her a pair of warm boots and they walked together in the snow, laughing and playing like kids. As the sky darkened, they reached a beautiful cottage.
Sanju’s eyes widened again. “Aryan, this is amazing!”
He took her inside. The cottage was warm and filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers. Aryan led her to a room and handed her a bag.
“Get ready and wear this. I’ll be waiting.”
He walked to another room and changed into a track pant and yellow sweatshirt.
Sanju stepped out wearing a cream crop top and a pastel green skirt that reached her knees.
Aryan’s eyes softened. “You look beautiful, Mrs. Aryan.”
He took her hand and led her to the living room where a cozy table was set with candles and flowers beside a bonfire. All her favorite dishes were arranged beautifully. He pulled out a chair for her and sat across, his eyes only on her.
As Sanju admired the snow-covered scenery through the wide windows of the cottage, she turned to Aryan with a soft smile.
“I love this place, Aryan.”
Aryan leaned back in his chair, smirking. “Only this place?”
She laughed gently, her eyes twinkling with affection. “Of course, I love my handsome husband who always surprises me like this.” She blew an air kiss at him.
Aryan caught the invisible kiss in the air and pressed it to his chest with a smile. “Feels like I saw you just yesterday, and now we are celebrating our 10th anniversary.”
“Everything is still fresh,” Sanju said, her voice dipped in nostalgia. “Our marriage, me falling in love with you, our Saran and Sara.”
“Everything feels surreal,” Aryan nodded, his eyes fixed on her. “And you are still the same Sanjana I saw for the first time at that resort. That moment is still fresh in my thoughts.”
Sanju looked at him with warmth. “Everybody is happy now. All our kids are enjoying their life, and they care for each other, support one another, and never give up. I love seeing them together.”
Aryan chuckled lightly. “Hmm. Our Saran is absolutely you in character—except for the appearance, which is like me.”
“Hmm, yes,” she agreed, nodding. “And Sara is a little devil like you. Adamant, and gets everything she wants.”
“My princess…” Aryan smiled dreamily. “And my prince… they are adorable.”
Sanju narrowed her eyes playfully. “Oh, and what about me?”
“You are my queen, wifey,” he said with a playful bow. “Who else dares to control this beast other than you, my beauty?”
“Sure you are a beast,” she teased, grinning. “And I’ve been seeing it all these years.”
Aryan laughed heartily and then suddenly knelt before her, stretching out his hand with a charming smile.
“Can I have my beautiful wife’s hand for a dance now?”
Sanju smiled, placing her hand in his. He gently pulled her up, snaked his arm around her waist, and hugged her close. A soft romantic song played in the background. They swayed gracefully to the rhythm, their eyes locked, their fingers grazing against each other’s skin, igniting familiar sparks between them. Subtle kisses and affectionate touches made the atmosphere warmer than the fireplace beside them.
Aryan then lifted her into his arms in a bridal style and carried her into the bedroom—beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and softly glowing scented candles. The romantic vibe was undeniable, and so was their desire.
Sanju stood near the frost-covered window, drawing delicate patterns with her fingers. Aryan came behind and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his chest. He kissed her deeply, then trailed tender kisses along her jawline, eventually leaving a love bite on her collarbone.
His hand slid over her bare waist, tracing loving shapes, while his other hand gently caressed her hair. In a swift motion, he carried her to the bed, hovering over her, their fingers entwined. He locked her beneath him, kissing her passionately. He released her hands, allowing his fingers to explore her intimately, making her shudder with pleasure as a soft moan escaped her lips, driving him wild.
Soon, their clothes were discarded in the heat of their passion, and only the sounds of moans and gasps filled the room as they reached their climax together. Aryan kissed her forehead tenderly just as the clock struck midnight.
“Happy anniversary, sweetheart,” he whispered.
“Happy anniversary, dear husband,” Sanju replied softly, her eyes brimming with love.
Aryan reached over to the nightstand, pulling out a small velvet box. Inside was a delicate ring, engraved with the initials A.S. He gently slid it onto her finger.
“Lovely,” Sanju whispered, admiring it. “Now time for my gift.”
She reached for a small case and presented him with a custom-made Rolex watch, with their initials printed on the dial. Aryan smiled wide—it was one of many watches she’d gifted him over the years, knowing his obsession with them. They exchanged a kiss, and once again surrendered to their passion before finally falling asleep in each other’s arms, exhausted and content.
The next morning, Sanju stirred first. The continuous ringing of their phones broke through the silence of the cozy room. She sat up against the headboard, rubbing her eyes and picking up the call from Nila.
“Happy anniversary, Sanju,” came Nila’s cheerful voice.
“Thank you, Nila,” Sanju replied with a sleepy smile.
“Where is brother?” Nila asked.
Sanju shook Aryan gently, waking him up, and held the phone out to him, putting the call on speaker.
“Hi, Nila,” Aryan greeted, his voice groggy but warm.
“Happy anniversary, bro!” Nila replied excitedly, followed by a loud chorus of giggles and wishes from the kids.
Aryan and Sanju smiled, thanking them all lovingly before Sanju ended the call. She turned to find Aryan’s eyes fixed on her.
“What??” she asked, narrowing her eyes.
“You look sexy,” Aryan said, smirking. “Even after 10 years, you still try to hide under that duvet.”
“Stop it, Aryan,” Sanju rolled her eyes.
“I never get tired of having you,” he said huskily as he pulled the duvet away and rolled over her, peppering her with hasty kisses. Their morning began with soft laughter, tender romance, and a familiar rhythm of passion. After their little escapade, Aryan scooped her up and carried her into the washroom where their fantasy continued under the shower.
After freshening up and having lunch together, they boarded their private jet and returned to the city. That evening, they arrived at ARC Hotels, where the family and friends had planned a grand anniversary party. Aryan and Sanju, still glowing from their romantic escape, began getting ready together in the lavish presidential suite, both hearts full and eyes sparkling with love.
The ballroom at ARC Hotels sparkled under soft golden lights, its elegance amplified by floral arrangements and shimmering drapes. Vishnu, Devika, and the rest of the family had already arrived, dressed in their finest. The children, all in matching blue outfits, ran around joyfully, their giggles echoing through the grand hall.
Sara tugged at Nila’s saree, her big eyes wide with curiosity. “Nila aunty, when will appa and amma come?”
“They are getting ready and will come soon, baby,” Nila smiled, gently stroking her hair.
“Ok aunty,” Sara nodded, then rushed off to join the other kids.
Just then, the grand doors of the ballroom opened.
Aryan, dressed sharply in a navy tuxedo, walked in confidently, hand in hand with Sanju, who looked breathtaking in a navy-blue gown adorned with a delicate diamond necklace and earrings. The room seemed to pause for a moment as the couple entered. The children squealed with excitement and ran to them, holding flowers in their tiny hands, offering wishes and hugs.
Sanju gasped as her eyes swept across the decorated ballroom. Every corner was adorned with framed photographs—moments from their childhood, college days, wedding, the birth of Saran and Sara, vacations, and quiet family times. Each photo held a memory, a chapter of their journey, and Sanju felt her heart swell with emotion.
Vishnu, Devika, and Surendhar approached, pulling the couple into a warm group hug. “Happy anniversary,” they wished.
Soon after, Ranjith, Nila, Naren, Pavi, Keerthy, Pradeep, Maya, and Vivaan followed with their own hugs and heartfelt wishes. The room buzzed with laughter and love.
The ladies playfully dragged Sanju towards the front while the men pulled Aryan, setting them up to cut the anniversary cake. Just as they were about to begin, Sara squealed.
“Appa! Amma! Carry me! I want to cut the cake with you!”
Sanju smiled and lifted Sara in her arms, while Aryan picked up Saran. Calling all the kids to join them, the family gathered around the cake and cut it together. Laughter rang out as the children fed them cake. Aryan held out a piece to Sanju, who fed him back, and then both were rewarded with kisses on their cheeks from Sara and Saran—another beautiful memory added to their gallery of love.
Pavi grinned and called out, “Sanju, now tell us about your 10 years journey.”
Sanju looked at Aryan. He nodded supportively, and she took a deep breath, her eyes soft with memories.
“It all seems like it happened yesterday when we got married with the blessings of Surendhar uncle. It was the first time I saw Aryan. I didn’t have any idea what was happening around me and felt totally lost. At times, I was scared that I was trapped in a devil’s cage.” The crowd chuckled lightly, and Aryan smiled sheepishly.
“He used to care and scare me… and that was because he worried about losing me, which I realized later. He cared for me in a way that I couldn’t stop loving him. And if I hadn’t fallen in love with him, I would have been a loser in life, because Aryan was the best and most precious thing to ever happen in my life.”
Sanju’s voice thickened with emotion, her eyes shimmering. “He loved me—loved me like nobody could ever love someone. He loved every aspect of me and never expected anything in return. His love was pure and unconditional, and I’ve felt his love has only multiplied in these years. I’m proud and blessed to have my Aryan for myself. Then came our Saran and Sara—the rays of joy who made our lives even more colorful. I love my day when it starts with them and ends with them. I love you, Aryan, and I promise to love you until I breathe my last.”
Just then, Sara pouted dramatically.
“Mommy, you don’t love me?”
Sanju chuckled and turned to her. “Of course I love my Sara baby—and Saran. I also love Tharun, Vishali, Mithra, and Kara. Love you all.” She blew an air kiss toward the kids and then turned to wink at Aryan.
Aryan rubbed the back of his neck, blushing a little as the others teased him.
Keerthy clapped and grinned. “Now Aryan anna, your turn to speak.”
Aryan widened his eyes as if caught off guard. Without missing a beat, he quickly pulled out his phone, pretending to be busy.
“Sorry, call! Call!” he exclaimed and walked away hurriedly, leaving everyone laughing.
Sanju twisted her lips into a smirk and shook her head, settling down with the kids. She joined Nila and Pavi in feeding dinner to the children, her heart full.
Everyone began to settle in for dinner, but then the lights dimmed slowly, and a spotlight moved to the front of the room.
There, standing confidently with a wide smile, was Aryan.
The kids immediately recognized him and began cheering. Everyone’s attention turned to him.
“Sanju, my dear wifey,” Aryan began, his voice deep and filled with warmth, “you know how much I love you. And it’s not 10 years for me… but almost 12 years since I saw you first.”
He paused, letting that sink in. “There has never been a day where I haven’t had even a minute without your thoughts. I’m the luckiest person in this world since I have you—and you have loved me unconditionally.”
Aryan’s eyes glistened under the lights. “Thank you for coming into my life. Thank you for the love… and for bringing our cute Sara and Saran into this world. There is nothing in this world that could equal your love for me. So, the least I could do… is fulfill your long-lasting wish.”
There was a playful hesitation in his tone. “I know it might be bad. Still, I wanted to do this for you. Please bear with me. This… is for you, my love.”
The room held its breath in anticipation.
Nizhal pola naanum
Nadai poda neeyum
Thodargindra sontham
Nedungaala bantham
Like a shadow, I walk
And you walk beside me
This bond that continues
Is a lifelong connection.
Kadal vaanam kooda
Niram maara koodum
Manam konda paasam
Thadam maaridaathu
Even the ocean and sky
May change their colors
But the love held in the heart
Will never change its path.
Naan vaazhum vaazhvae
Unakaaga thaanae
Naal thorum nenjil
Naanenthum thenae
Ennaalum sangeetham santhosamae
Vaai pesidum pullanguzhal
Nee thaan oru poovin madal
The life I live
Is only for you
Every day, in my heart
I am the honey that flows
Through me, there’s music and joy
Like a flute that speaks without words
You are the delicate petal of a flower
Poovae sempoovae un vaasam varum
Vaasal en vaasal un poongaavanam
Vaai pesidum pullaanguzhal
Nee thaan oru poovin madal
Oh flower, crimson flower, your fragrance drifts in
Your garden blooms right at my doorstep
The flute speaks without a word
And you… you are the petal of a flower
Aryan knelt in front of Sanju, holding her hands gently. He brought her knuckles to his lips and kissed them with deep affection as he finished singing the song. The hall erupted in applause, everyone touched by his heartfelt effort to sing for the woman he loved.
“I know that would sound very bad. I tried my best,” Aryan said with a sheepish smile.
Sanju immediately placed her finger on his lips. “Shhhhh. You were excellent. Pitch perfect. Thank you. Love you so much,” she whispered.
They hugged each other tightly. Aryan pressed a kiss on her forehead, and their foreheads rested together, their eyes closed, feeling nothing but each other’s presence.
He was her solace. She was the missing piece in the puzzle of his life. She was his breath, and he was her soul. He owned her heart, and hers beat only for him. They were not just in love — they were destined. Born for each other, bound by a connection so deep that no force in the universe could ever separate them.
He was her Aryan.
She was his Sanju.
And together… they lived happily ever after.
*************
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Thank you. bye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
