It's Complicated

Sixteen

Sivaangi stood in front of the sprawling mansion in awe. Kavya's home was a grand sight, a sleek building made of glass and steel. Lush greenery, fruit trees, rose bushes and a large fountain in the front filled up the plot.

She gulped as she took in her busy surroundings, walking to the front door. Ashwin said it would be a small get together, but the place was packed. Loud music, bright lights and tons of New Years decor set up for an exhilarating atmosphere. People were everywhere, the air was full of chatter but she could not locate one familiar face. She cursed herself for showing up alone. What was she thinking?

He had really agreed to this party. What had he been thinking? Ashwin internally groaned as the crowd around Kavya and him begged to hear their first date story. He wasn't happy with so many people hearing details about his personal life, just thinking about the possible rumours exhausted him. She said she would be inviting a few friends, clearly her definition was not the same as his. He had invited only six people, and three couldn't make it. It felt pathetic compared to her troves of buddies.

"So first we find out we have the same favourite film, Titanic. Then we realize we both love cooking, hiking and traveling. Just so much in common," Kavya said to the engrossed group.

"Adorable," commented one of her random friends.

"He's a shy character, but totally worth getting to know."

Kavya smiled at him but he was distracted by the obnoxious round of  "Aw's" that went around the room.

One of the guys in the group grabbed a bottle from the cooler and held it to Ashwin.

"Ashwin, beer?"

"No thank you. I don't drink."

The guy balked in surprise.

"What? How come?"

Kavya smacked his shoulder.

"Don't be sexist Aryan, you never ask why I don't drink. Just be happy I'm treating you all for New Years, I bought the best alcohol on the market!"

The drinking was another thing that had dampened Ashwin's mood. Too many of the guests had gotten loud, overly excited and loopy. He couldn't stand such behaviour.

"Hey, toilet use pannitu vantharen," Ashwin told Kavya as he headed out of the crowd. He just needed a minute of peace and quiet. Even if it was in a locked bathroom.

Sivaangi peered through the house, praying for some sight of Ashwin. It was rare for her to feel nervous in a social setting, but she had no idea what to expect today. Her parents had immediately allowed her go as it was Ashwin's party, but it sure didn't feel like it. She had never been to a party with drinking and dancing, it was all overwhelming.

"Hi! Sivaangi, over here!"

She turned and saw a familiar girl waving at her from the middle of a crowd.

Kavya was quite pretty, a conventional beauty. Dressed in a dark blue jumpsuit with heels, she matched Ashwin's looks and class. Her own white sundress and sandals seemed ordinary in comparison. The entire group watched with intrigue as Sivaangi walked towards them, clearly interested by a celebrity's presence.

Sivaangi put on a big smile.

"Hi Kavya, I've heard so much about you. Nice to finally meet!"

"Same feeling, I've literally seen so many of you clips and videos. You're the cutest thing ever."

Sivaangi laughed.

"Thanks akka."

"Akka va? People still use those terms?"she heard someone murmur.