Destined Strangers

CHAPTER 12 - Unforgettable Moments

PRIYA✨

An invitation to the new day blossomed, as the reddish petals of the sun illuminated the misty sky. Relishing the scenary through my eyes, I woke up, stretching myself.

As I sat on the bed, my dad entered the room.

Perfect timing!

"Good morning, dear! Happy birthday!" I smiled at dad's wish and mumbled, "Thanks, dad!"

He smiled and left, after which I strode towards the bathroom to freshen up. Jiffies later, I found myself decked up in a peacock blue churidar with shiny embroideries. Setting my hair, I glanced at my phone, eagerly awaiting a text from a certain someone.

Seeing no notifications, I kept it back in place.

That was my routine since yesterday. Looking for pings, from Karthi and keeping the phone back. 

Reminiscing yesternight, I felt disappointed. I thought that Karthi would wish me at 12 o clock, like those movie heroes and typical boyfriends. But, he didn't.

Not even a message or a call.

Feeling dejected, I ambled to the hall where a cake was kept.

Expected!

This was happening since past twenty years. Me, getting ready and entering the hall, my parents welcoming me with a cake.

I chuckled as I recollected that, it was my 26th birthday. I can't believe I was 26 already!

"Cut the cake, Priya!" Sita said while mom and dad stood near me.

I nodded with a smile, and proceeded to cut the cake whilst the iconic birthday song was sung by my beloved family.

After feasting on the delicious, black forest cake and the breakfast, I perched myself on the sofa. I wondered why didn't Karthi call me.

Was he okay? Should I text him?

But my ego was too much to handle, thus I stuck with my decision to stay mute.

Bored, I looked at the gifts I was presented with. A gold chain gifted by dad, a saree from mom and a watch from Sita.

Sighing, I stared at my engagement ring.

Why didn't you wish me, Karthi?

"Priya! Priya!" I heard mom's voice.

"Yes?!" I yelled back.

"Look, who has come," she said.

As lethargy embraced me, I stood up and walked towards the entrance. To my surprise, it was Karthi.

How come he's here?

He was dressed in a navy blue shirt and black jeans. His silky hair bounced around with the movement of wind. I can just look at him, all day!

He was a handsome male specimen! Made exclusively for me! Only for me...

Just then, I noticed that we were twinning!

Same pinch! I'll pinch him, once we get out of here.

Mom smiled and nodded at him, then said, "Priya, Karthi wants you to go with him for a short trip."

What?

I looked at him dubiously whilst he winked at me which made me blush.

"Should I go, mom?" I asked.

Instead of responding, she smacked my hand and mumbled, "Come home, soon. Be safe!"

I nodded, grabbing my phone.