UNBOUND

- 3 -

November flew by, with more dinners, late-night conversations, and shared moments of warmth. But when December came, the festive spirit in the air was impossible to ignore. One cold December night, after a cozy evening at Aditya's place, something shifted between them. Playfully, Kiana asked Aditya -

"What kind of love do you think I deserve?" she asked suddenly, needing to hear the truth from him.

Aditya smiled softly. "You deserve everything, Kiana. To be loved fully, passionately, without any reservations. You deserve someone who sees you, who cherishes every moment with you."
His response was tender, thoughtful, and full of love-he spoke of all the ways he could cherish her, love her, and protect her.

As their faces drew close, Kiana remembered their promise to remain friends. She quickly excused herself to the balcony, asking for water to cool down. But Aditya followed her outside with a glass in hand, his presence steady and reassuring his presence as calming as it was electrifying.

His playful nature brought her back to the present as he cracked a joke that made her laugh.

They exchanged a look that said everything they'd been holding back.

Kiana's breath caught in her throat. "And that someone... is you?"

Aditya took a step closer, his voice low. "Yes."

They locked eyes again, and this time, Kiana couldn't hold back. She leaned in, kissing him, her hand resting on his chest, feeling the wild beating of his heart.

In a flash, their lips met. The dam had broken, and they were finally allowing themselves to feel everything they had been holding back.

That night, everything changed. In the quiet of Aditya's room, they gave in to their long-simmering desire.
In that tender moment, everything fell into place. Aditya lifted her gently and carried her to his bed, where they made love for the first time, passion and love woven into every touch. They made love, each touch filled with overwhelming passion and emotion. Kiana saw the depth of his love for her in his eyes, and afterward, they lay together in peaceful silence.

Aditya, unable to sleep, watched her as she drifted off. He had waited for this moment since the day he met her, and now that he had finally told her how he felt, he couldn't stop smiling.
Afterward, as they lay together, Aditya whispered, "I've loved you since the moment I saw you." Kiana smiled, feeling the truth of his words settle into her heart. 

The next morning, he woke up early, quietly slipping out for a walk. He picked up blueberries, strawberries, bananas, and toast, making her a smoothie for breakfast. Kiana woke to his kiss, her heart full as she fed him a bite of the toast. They laughed together, enjoying their morning before leaving the house. Aditya dropped her off at her place before, returning to their routines but his thoughts were always with her.

Later that evening, they met again. It was Christmas Eve, and Aditya brought her a promise ring-an unspoken vow to always love her. Together, they wandered through the mall, exploring the festively lit streets, holding hands, and stealing kisses beneath twinkling Christmas lights. He surprised her with orchids, her favorite flowers, and dark chocolates, knowing how much she loved them. They shared these intimate moments, admiring each other in ways no one else ever had.

Their love continued to grow in small but meaningful gestures-getting tattoos together, working out at the gym, and sneaking in a romantic quickie. Aditya always cared for her well-being, making sure she drank enough water, remembered her medications, and stayed healthy during her monthly cycles. He encouraged her to grow in her career and pursue her studies, all while maintaining their love for the arts, night walks, and romantic dates under the stars.

January brought a sense of stability to their relationship. For Aditya's birthday, Kiana surprised him with dinner at his favorite restaurant. Afterward, he led her to a small tattoo parlor.

"What are we doing here?" Kiana asked, intrigued.

Aditya grinned. "I wanted something permanent. Something that would always remind me of you."

They both got matching tattoos-a small, meaningful symbol of their love. As they held hands during the inking process, Kiana whispered, "I've never done anything this crazy before."

Aditya squeezed her hand. "I'm glad you're doing it with me."