the Midnight Promise

The terrace had always been our special place. Perched atop Kalaiselvi's modest apartment building, it offered a panoramic view of the bustling city below, the distant hum of traffic a comforting constant. Tonight, the air was thick with anticipation. It was the eve of Kalai's birthday, and I had a plan - a plan that could change everything.

Earlier that evening, I met up with my closest friends at our favourite café. We gathered around our usual table in the corner, the buzz of conversation and clinking of cups filling the air. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves.

"I'm going to propose to Kalai tonight," I announced my voice barely above a whisper.

The table fell silent. My friends stared at me in shock, then erupted into a mix of cheers and words of caution.

"Finally!" exclaimed Riya, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "We've all been waiting for you to make a move."

Arjun, my oldest friend, leaned forward, his expression serious. "Are you sure about this, Kavin? You know she's still dealing with her breakup."

I nodded firmly. "I know, but I can't keep hiding how I feel. She's been my best friend for years, and I love her. I need her to know."

"But what if she's not ready?" asked Priya, ever the cautious one. "What if it complicates things between you two?"

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their concerns. "I've thought about that, too. But I can't keep pretending that I don't feel this way. Kalai means everything to me. If I don't tell her now, I might never get another chance."

My friends exchanged glances, a mixture of worry and support in their eyes. Finally, Arjun sighed and clapped me on the shoulder. "Alright, Kavin. If you're sure about this, then go for it. Just be prepared for any outcome."

"Thanks, guys," I said, my resolve strengthening. "I appreciate your support."

With their mixed encouragement and warnings echoing in my ears, I headed to Kalai's place. As I climbed the stairs to her apartment, my heart pounded in my chest. This terrace had seen so many of our shared moments - laughter, tears, silent companionship. Tonight, it would witness something more.

Kalai pushed open the door to the terrace, her presence a beacon in the cool night air. She walked to the railing; her silhouette soft against the city lights. It had been six months since her heart was broken, and though she tried to hide it, I could see the sadness that still lingered.

I followed her, my footsteps barely audible against the tiled floor. For years, I had been by her side, and my feelings for her grew stronger with each passing day. Tonight, I had decided, was the night I would finally tell her.

"Kalai," I began gently, "what's on your mind?"

She sighed; the weight of her emotions heavy in her voice. "It's just... everything feels so different now. I thought I had moved on, but sometimes it still hurts so much."

I nodded, my heart aching for her. I had seen her through the worst of it, and now I wanted to be there for her in a different way. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the words I had rehearsed so many times in my mind.

"Kalai," I said, my voice trembling slightly, "there's something I need to tell you."

She turned to me, her eyes searching my face "What is it, Kavin?"

I took a deep breath, ready to confess my feelings, but Kalai spoke first, her voice filled with emotion.

"Kavin, I know you've been worried about me, and I appreciate it more than you can imagine. But there's something I need to get off my chest."