ℕ𝕠𝕥 𝔸𝕝𝕝 𝕊𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤 𝔸𝕝𝕚𝕘𝕟

5

On Her Shoulders
>>>>–––– ✨️ ––––<<<<

Vikram was running late, the earlier client shoot had dragged on far longer than expected. Now, he barely had time to rush home, take a quick shower, and pack for his next assignment—a photoshoot for a function in another city. With no time to spare, he took the stairs two at a time, skipping steps in his hurry. By the time he fumbled with his keys and opened the door, he was already mentally preparing his packing list. But as he stepped inside, he froze for a second, his eyes landing on Akshara seated in the living room with her mother and sister. The unexpected guests made him pause, shifting his hurried mood.

Akshara stood up as soon as she saw him, a smile spreading across her face. Vikram quickly adjusted the strap of his bag, trying to compose himself from his earlier rush. He entered the house and immediately removed his shoes and socks, adopting a more composed demeanor now that they had company. With a polite nod and a smile, he greeted Meenakshi, Akshara's mother, feeling a slight shift in the atmosphere,

Hi Aunty

Yepdhi irukinga?

( How are you?)

Nalla iruken

( I'm good)

That was the extent of the interaction between Meenakshi and Vikram. Tara, on the other hand, was far more animated. She hopped to Vikram's side with an eager grin, greeting him brightly. Her excitement filled the room as she practically bounced on her feet, clearly happy to see him. Vikram couldn't help but smile back at her energy, momentarily forgetting about the time crunch he was under.

Hi!!

Hello! School polae?

( Hello! No school today?)

Illaye

( Nope)

Bunk adichiya?

( Did you bunk it?)

Tara giggled mischievously, shaking her head. Her playful nature didn't go unnoticed until Meenakshi called her to sit beside her, ending her little antics. Meanwhile, Akshara quietly followed Vikram to their room, leaving her family in the living room as she sensed the rush he was in.

Tara'ku one week leave'ahm adhan amma avala one week ingaye irukae vitutu poga vandhanga.

( Tara has leave from her school for a week, so mom's here to drop her off to stay with us)

Super nga, jolly'ah irukum

( That's great, it's going to be fun)

Vikram responded, his hands busy packing the essentials for his trip. His voice sounded distracted, but there was a certain warmth in it,

Ungaluku okay dhane?

( It's okay for you, right?)

Akshara's unexpected question caused Vikram to halt mid-motion, turning to her with a frown, though his hands continued to mechanically stuff items into his backpack. His brows furrowed in slight confusion,

Yen? Enaku yen okay illa?

( Why? Why won't it be okay for me?)

Illa unga kitta sollamae..

( I mean, I forgot to inform you..)

Vikram paused, momentarily inhaling sharply as he looked down at Akshara's petite frame. She stood there, absentmindedly nibbling her fingernails, her fingertips lightly brushing the cupboard wood as she waited for his response. He couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, her nervous habit giving away her anticipation. With a soft smile, he finally answered her,