It was almost evening when they finally reached their destination. The car halted in front of a large, elegant beach house glowing under the soft golden light of the sunset.
“Welcome, everyone!” Ian said warmly as he stepped out of the car, stretching his arms slightly. His eyes lingered on the familiar structure. It’s been a year since I was last here… he thought, nostalgia tugging at his chest.
“Wait… are we staying here?” Naina asked, her voice laced with surprise. Her big, innocent eyes scanned the serene surroundings.
“Yes…” Ian replied with a soft smile, his tone carrying a certain gentleness meant only for her.
“But… it doesn’t look like a hotel. It feels more like… someone’s home,” she said curiously, tilting her head as she admired the charming place.
“Ha! Naina, you’re absolutely right.” Tylor slung his arm playfully across Ian’s neck. “This beautiful beach house belongs to our handsome friend Ian.”
“Really?” Naina’s lips parted in awe, her fascination almost childlike. “It’s so beautiful…”
Ian’s heart swelled at her reaction. He loved watching her wonder. “Yes. We usually come here during vacations. Come on, let’s go in.”
Inside, the scent of fresh flowers welcomed them. Ian noticed Uncle John, the caretaker, carefully arranging lilies in a vase. His once-strong shoulders now stooped slightly with age, but the warmth in his presence remained unchanged. Uncle John had been looking after this house for two decades, more family than staff.
“Hey, Uncle John! How are you?” Ian greeted, dropping his bag on the table.
The old man turned, his tired face lighting up instantly. “Oh, my boy… Ian!” He pulled him into a tight embrace. “How are you, my child?”
“I’m good, Uncle John,” Ian smiled, his eyes softening with genuine affection. “And look, we’re all here to trouble you again.” He winked playfully.
“Oh, nonsense!” Uncle John waved him off warmly. “I’ve been eagerly waiting for this day.”
“Thanks, Uncle John,” James said, hugging him as well.
“Come, sit, relax. I’ll bring something for you,” Uncle John said before heading to the kitchen.
Everyone sank into the comfortable couches. Ian’s gaze unconsciously drifted toward Naina, who was chatting quietly with Shreya, her laughter delicate, almost musical.
“So, Naina,” Ian asked softly, his eyes lingering on her, “do you like it here?”
Her face lit up with sincerity. “It’s beautiful, Ian. But… you never told me about this place?”
Before Ian could answer, Liza chimed in with a sharp, almost arrogant tone. “Well, it’s nothing special. Ian owns so many properties. Don’t you know his father is a billionaire?” She flipped her hair with pride.
Ian’s jaw tightened. What is she trying to prove? He disliked the superiority in her voice.
Gently, he cut in. “Actually, Naina, this place isn’t mine—it’s my father’s. We used to come here often as a family. And Uncle John… well, he’s been taking care of this house for years. He’s like family to us.” His tone softened again, almost as if he wanted to erase Liza’s arrogant impression from Naina’s mind.
Just then, Uncle John returned with snacks and drinks, his face beaming.
“Uncle John, meet our new friends—Naina and Shreya,” James said.
YOU ARE READING
My Indian love ❤
RomanceThis is the story of Ian an American boy who is struggling to find the love of his life until he met.. --- Her soft cheek pressed against his, the warmth of her breath grazing the side of his neck. Her hair fell like a curtain around them, strands b...
