A Little Too Late

Shot 1

A LITTLE TOO LATE

SHOT 1

Written by poemsforyou_13

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Soft moonlight poured over the carefully decorated dinner party setup. There was a light breeze in the air as guests mingled and laughed with one another, the sound of silverware and clinking glass all around.

Ashwin looked around, grinning. His wedding planner had executed each event perfectly, and the sangeet was no exception. Everyone had danced and partied late into the night, finishing with a beachside dinner featuring all his favourite dishes.

When he'd inquired about the flower decor choice, the planner had joked that she'd never seen a groom so interested in wedding plans. But that was Ashwin. He strived to have every detail in his life perfect, the wedding was an upmost priority. And so far, so good.

He stood up, tapping his glass to get the crowd's attention.

"I'd like to give a small toast to honour this occasion. Thank you all so much for coming ... I'm aware the Maldives is a far trek from Chennai. But enga mela irrukura love kaga ellarum vanthurikinga and it means a lot."

He paused, his eyes setting on his bride.

She returned his stare and gave him her trademark poised smile, hands crossed in her lap gracefully.

"Sahana. You're the reason for all this. Thank you for agreeing to marry me. We've had our ups and downs but we always find a way to push forward... together. I love you."

She mouthed "you're so sweet" as the crowd clapped.

"Aama, unga rendu peroda love story ellarukum sollave illaiye bro! Eppadi meet panninga, eppadi ooru suthininga eppadi love vanthu vazhari urugunuchu... we want to know," Sarath said teasingly.

Ashwin laughed.

"Usual katha thaan. She was the mysterious new girl at the office and I had an immediate crush. I was floored the first time I saw her. She was wearing this stunning pink dress-"

"Yellow. It was actually yellow," Sahana interrupted.

"Right. Yellow. I mean yellow or pink, same thing no?" Ashwin chuckled.

"Not really," she replied, her uneasiness paired with a light laugh.

Ashwin swallowed.

"Anyways. After months and months of embarrassing attempts at small talk I gathered up the courage to ask her out for coffee. She said she didn't drink coffee."

The crowd laughed as Ashwin scratched his neck.

"Apdiye engaythu dhurama odi poi oliyanum nu thonuchu. But just as I turned around and got ready to run she tapped my shoulder and said-"

"I do like tea," Sahana finished.

The two looked at each other, smiling with a blush.

Sarath leaned over to Sakthi.

"Intha tea coffe kathai etho Romeo Juliet level ku scene podranga paaru.."

"Mudiyala anna," sniggered Sakthi.

Sivaangi twisted her skirt nervously, and took a deep breath. She knew that when Ashwin's small toast was over it would be time for her to perform. She'd never sung in front of so many people, and a sangeet was quite the crowd.