Aitai : I want to see you.

living in the moment

As dawn broke, Shehnaz woke to find a message from Sidharth, "Morning, birthday girl! Get ready by 10. I'll pick you up." The warmth of his words made her smile, almost as though she could hear his voice through the screen.

The morning felt different today, filled with a sense of excitement as she prepared for her day. Every little task felt more meaningful as she thought of Sidharth's plans for her birthday. Nearing ten o'clock, she went to her wardrobe, her mind already set on the white chiffon top she had chosen the night before. She paired it with her favorite boot-cut jeans, the outfit both beautiful and comfortable, adding a touch of elegance to her look.

She completed the ensemble with delicate pearl earrings and a simple silver pendant. A light floral perfume lingered as she took a final look in the mirror, feeling a thrill at what the day might bring.

Across town, Sidharth was preparing as well. He had spent some time planning the day, choosing a few places she might enjoy, but he wanted to keep things flexible, leaving space for her own choices to guide their time together. Grabbing his keys, he glanced at his watch and felt a flicker of anticipation. This wasn't just a birthday outing-it was a new kind of experience for him as well.

At exactly ten, Sidharth pulled up outside her quarters, and there she was, waiting by the entrance, her face lighting up with a bright smile as soon as she saw him. He stepped out of the car to greet her, and for a moment, they simply looked at each other, sharing a quiet understanding of the promise the day held.

"Happy birthday," he said again, his voice soft yet sincere, his gaze warm. aap mujhe kitne baar wish kr chuke aapne mujhe itne baar kr diya ke kisi aur ko krne ki zarurat he na ho.

"Thank you," Shehnaz replied, laughter in her voice, grateful for his presence. "So, where are we headed?" she asked, her curiosity evident.

Sidharth chuckled, "Well, that's up to you. I've got a few places in mind, but you can decide. How about something outdoorsy? Zoo? Adventure park?" bolo yarr.

She looked at him, appreciating the thought he'd put into her day. "I'd love that," she said, her eyes bright with anticipation.

With a shared sense of excitement, they set off together, laughter and light conversation filling the car as they drove into the morning, ready to make this birthday one to remember.

"First, let's grab some coffee," Sidharth suggested, steering her toward a cozy café he knew. "There's a place I think you'll love. We can plan the rest there."

Shehnaz's eyes sparkled at the suggestion, and soon they were seated by a corner window with warm mugs in their hands. The café was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and a faint jazz melody played in the background. Sidharth ordered their treats-a red velvet pastry, a brownie, and two steaming cups of coffee-while also taking a moment to check her preference.

As they settled into the atmosphere, he couldn't help but notice how radiant Shehnaz looked, so youthful and vibrant in her white top and jeans. There was a freshness about her, as though she brought a new light to every room she entered. She, noticing his gaze, smirked slightly. "What? Is something wrong?" she asked, feigning innocence, her eyes dancing with humor. "I mean...am I not looking good or what?"

Sidharth chuckled, momentarily caught off guard. "No, not at all. You look great ,I was just thinking..."

"Oh?" Shehnaz teased, raising an eyebrow. "So you've seen me in suits, even sarees, but here I am, in jeans...you sure you can handle the change?"

They both laughed, and the comfort of their banter eased them further into the day.

Once they'd taken a few sips and enjoyed the pastries, Sidharth leaned forward with a mischievous grin. "So, birthday girl, tell me where to? I've got a few ideas, but I want to know what excites you. Let me list them.