Tejran- Three meetings,One secret

Strangers no more

Karan kept himself from drifting into the kitchen. His mother was in there with Tejasswi and Aai, and he knew one more teasing glance from her would undo him completely. Still, it wasn't easy to resist. Every part of him wanted to catch a glimpse of her.

And then—there she was, emerging with bowls in hand. It was his chance. He crossed the room quickly, meeting her halfway.

"Do you need any help?" he asked.

She shook her head, smiling. "Naah, it's already done. Your mom is such a good cook. I can just tell by the biryani."

"Yeah? Do you like biryani?"

Her eyes lit up. "It's deadly with chicken curry. I loveeeee it."

The way she stretched the word love made his chest tighten. He wanted to reach out and squeeze her cheeks—just once—but he forced himself to keep his hands to himself.

Their mothers soon followed with more dishes, and everyone settled at the table. Karan made sure to take the seat directly across from her. She wasn't shy about enjoying her food, and he found himself entranced, wishing he could simply rest his chin on his palms and watch her eat all evening.

"Aunty, the food is amazing," Tejasswi said between bites.

His mother beamed. "I'm so glad you liked it. Next time you want biryani, just give me a call."

"For sure, aunty. I'll come just for the biryani."

Karan leaned in. "You should also try Mom's kadi-chawal and idli-sambar."

Tejasswi laughed. "The list keeps getting longer, aunty. I love food."

"Anytime, beta," his mother said warmly.

After dinner, they drifted into the living room. Tejasswi's gaze was drawn to the wall of family photos. She walked closer, her head tilted with curiosity. Karan joined her, answering questions about unfamiliar faces.

On the couch, his mother whispered, just loud enough for Aai to hear. "They look good together. I think he likes her."

Aai's eyes narrowed. "Really? Are you sure?"

"Let's send them out," his mother suggested slyly. "We can talk while they're gone."

Aai nodded.

"Sunny," his mom called suddenly. "Neetu was telling me Teju loves chocolate ice cream."

Karan caught the hint. "I can get it."

"Take her with you," she said, feigning innocence. "She can choose for us as well."

Karan turned, trying to keep his excitement contained. "Only if you want to come."

Tejasswi grinned. "How can I say no to ice cream? Let's go."

He grabbed his keys, silently thanking his mother. As they stepped out, she called after them, deliberately loud, "Do you think Sunny likes her?"

"Yes," his father replied without hesitation. "He behaved differently around her. I noticed it too."

Back in the car, Karan opened the passenger door for Tejasswi.

"Gentleman!" she teased as she slid inside. "Are you trying to impress me?"

He chuckled. "What, me? Usually it takes more than opening a door. I do it for every girl who sits in my car."

"Wow, I'm impressed."

"Are you really?"

She smirked. "I don't see you as a boy, Kundrri. That's your new name. How do you like it?"