Echoes of MaAn: Love beyond Separation

||101|| A Romantic Dinner Date

After the grand birthday celebration and a day filled with laughter, performances, and family love, Anupama and Anuj finally headed home, their hearts full. Aadhymaan was comfortably snuggled in Anupama's arms, already fast asleep, while Aadhya clung to Anuj's hand, yawning after the long day of excitement.

As they entered the house, Anupama sighed with contentment. "I still can't believe how much effort everyone put into today," she said softly, as she gently placed Aadhymaan in his crib.

Anuj, watching her with a fond smile, leaned against the doorway. "Well, it's because you deserve it. Every moment of love, every smile today – that was all for you."

Anupama smiled, brushing her hair behind her ear. "You always know how to make me feel special."

Anuj smirked mischievously and walked over, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. "Oh, I'm not done making you feel special. There's more."

"More?" She turned to face him, her eyebrows raising in curiosity.

"Mmhmm," he hummed, leaning in closer. "Do you remember when you asked me earlier what I got you for your birthday? Well, let's just say... I've been saving the best for last."

Anupama's heart fluttered at his teasing tone. "Anuj, what are you up to?"

He playfully feigned innocence. "Up to? Me? Nothing, jaan. Just, you know, enjoying your company..." He leaned in, brushing his lips teasingly near her cheek, before pulling back with a grin. "But if you must know, I may have something for you... a little surprise, let's call it."

She narrowed her eyes, already familiar with his playful nature. "Anuj Kapadia, you're hiding something. Out with it!"

He chuckled, stepping back and dramatically pulling something from behind his back. It was a sleek, elegant gift box wrapped in deep blue with a silver ribbon. He dangled it in front of her, just out of reach. "What could it be, I wonder?"

Anupama reached for it, but he pulled it away again, grinning like a schoolboy. "No, no, no... first, you have to guess."

She laughed, swatting his arm playfully. "Anuj! Just give it to me already!"

He gave a theatrical sigh, pretending to be deep in thought. "Well, since you insist. But first, a hint." He leaned in again, whispering in her ear, "It's something that'll make you look even more beautiful tonight..."

She blushed, her curiosity piqued. "What is it?" she asked softly, her fingers gently tugging at the ribbon on the box.

He finally handed it to her. "Open it and see."

Carefully, she unwrapped the box, her fingers trembling slightly with anticipation. Inside lay a stunning outfit – a soft, royal blue silk saree with delicate silver embroidery that shimmered in the light. Along with it, there was a pair of matching silver earrings and a sleek clutch.

Anupama gasped softly, her eyes widening in surprise. "Anuj, this is beautiful! You didn't have to—"

"Shhh," he interrupted, placing a finger over her lips. "I wanted to. Now, go on, wear it. We have plans."

"Plans?" she blinked, still marveling at the saree. "But we just came back from the party, and it's getting late. What plans?"

Anuj grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Dinner. A special dinner."

"Dinner?" Anupama laughed softly, shaking her head. "We just had a cake big enough to last us the whole week! I'm full!"

Anuj raised an eyebrow. "Ah, but this isn't just any dinner. This is a five-star, romantic dinner. And I don't take no for an answer."