Ashwin just like anyone else, had his share of insecurities and flaws that made him very much human. Sivaangi's concern and care for Ani distressed him so deep that he could not keep it to himself. It wasn't because he was possessive, but because he was scared of losing her.
Sivaangi was astounded by his sudden candid yet serious question. The Ashwin she knew was anything but straightforward. Even the simplest of things were said in the most intricate way with words that were carefully chosen. This was most unexpected coming from him.
She could not gather what was on his mind, but she sensed that he was hurt. The glow and sparkle in his eyes were missing and so was his smile.
What bothered him? What did he want to know? Also, what would be the right thing to say?
She herself wasn't sure what her relationship with Ani was. It was not just friendship. It would be absurd to call him a friend. He was so much more. She felt safe, comfortable, pampered and completely free of all her flaws and insecurities when he was around. She was also confident that the these were mutual, and Ani trusted her with his life.
Complex and convoluted would be complete understatement.
Before she answered, she needed clarity as to why he was interested in knowing. She walked to sit next to him on the couch where they were leaned onto each other not so long ago.
Sivaangi: Ungalku en theriyanum?
(Why do you want to know?)
Ashwin: Therila ma.. I feel insecure.
(Not sure... I feel insecure.)
His words startled her. After all these years, did he really think it was possible for her to love anyone else?
Sivaangi: En apdi thonudhu?
(Why do you think so?)
Ashwin: Unna mothama tholachiruveno nu bayama iruku.
(I fear losing you completely)
His voice was breaking, and his eyes welled up. He quickly put his head down to pull back his tears.
Seeing him weak and vulnerable made her heart melt in an instant as always. Her first instinct was to comfort and console him.
She placed her hands on his, and felt the shiver vibrating through his body.
Sivaangi: Enna paarunga
(Look at me)
He hesitantly looked into her eyes.
Sivaangi: Tholacha onnu marubadiyum kedacha.. badhrama paathukardu unga kadama daane?
(Is it not your responsibility to keep the thing you got back after losing it once safe?)
Ashwin: Kedacha... Kandippa.
(If I do get it back, I will)
Sivaangi: Apo aduku enna pananumo adha pannunga.
(Then do what you have to do, to get it back)
Ashwin: Kedaikuma?
(Will I get it back?)
Sivaangi: Adhu unga kaila dan iruku. You don't have to worry about anyone else.
(That's on your efforts.)
There was something about hearing those words from her. It soothed his soul. Her clarity was astonishing. Beyond all of the pain, he saw her selfless love for him shine through.
Ashwin mentally slapped himself for putting her on the spot by probing into her relationship with Ani. Wasn't he one of those people who never believed in labels? Why did he behave like yet another possessive guy?
