𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐒(𝟏𝟖+)

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟒𝟎

SARANYA'S POV

I had just finished talking with my mother on the phone and turned my attention back to my friends. It had been three days since our visit to see her, and honestly, the time we spent there was wonderful.

Right now, I was at the mall with my friends, helping Kritika pick out a dress for her upcoming birthday party in four days. We were deep into shopping mode, with clothes and accessories scattered all around us.

As Kritika stepped out of the trial room, I glanced at the dress she had on and smiled.

"This one looks really nice," I said, pointing at the light-blue dress she was wearing. The color brought out the best in her features, making her look vibrant and fresh.

"Exactly! Even I feel good in this one," she admitted with a proud smile, turning towards the mirror to examine herself from every angle. She looked genuinely happy, and I could tell she was satisfied with the choice.

We spent another hour or so browsing through more stores, giggling and making fun of each other's fashion choices, as one does during these mall outings. I managed to pick up a black dress for myself, something that caught my eye unexpectedly.

Veer had been in college earlier, but he must have left by now. I had gotten an early leave today, so we had come straight to the mall right after college.

Right now, I was roaming my eyes here and there trying to pick up a gift for Veer.

Our one-month anniversary was coming up the day after tomorrow, and I wanted to surprise him with something truly special. I had been contemplating what could make the day memorable, and it dawned on me—something personal and meaningful and suddenly an idea struck inside my mind.

I looked over at my friends, who were busy selecting footwear. "You guys buy these," I said, my excitement barely contained. "I'm stepping out for a while. I have something I need to do. I'll be back in some time."

Tara looked up, curious. "Where are you going?"

"Just to a shop outside," I replied. "I have something to buy. You guys keep busy with the footwear until I get back."

They nodded, and I quickly made my way out of the mall, heading towards the shop right behind it—the "Picture Frame" store.

As I entered, the wonderful scent of wood and fresh paint greeted me warmly.

I walked straight to the section filled with large picture frames and began browsing through the options.

I wanted something big and elegant, a frame that would do justice to the collection of photographs we had from that day at the fair. After examining several options, I selected a beautiful, classic frame. Its rich, dark wood and intricate design seemed perfect for creating a collage of those cherished moments.

Once I had finalized the frame, I decided to add a personal touch. I went through the photos I had from that day, carefully choosing the ones that captured the best moments—the laughter, the candid shots, and the joyful times we shared. Each photo was a memory I wanted to preserve and celebrate.

The lady behind the counter informed me that it would take some time to get the frame ready. Additionally, I couldn't take the frame with me right now; it would ruin the surprise.

I gave her my number and asked her to send me a picture of the frame once it was ready. I also provided her with the address for delivery and requested her to gift-wrap it.

"Please ensure it's wrapped nicely," I said with a smile, already envisioning the joy on Veer's face when he would receive it. "And do let me know once it's on its way."