A SUITABLE MAN✔️

11

Sreethan : My biggest goal is to establish my own pediatric practice. I want to create a space where children and their families feel at home, not just a clinical setting. I believe in building relationships with my patients. It's important for kids to trust their doctors, and I want to be someone they can feel comfortable with.

Shrika : Wow, that's an admirable goal.

Shrika replied by feeling a rush of admiration for his dedication.

Shrika : Next up, how do you feel about family ?

Sreethan's expression softened.

Sreethan : Family means everything to me. I lost my parents at a young age, so I cherish the bonds I have with vidya akka and my extended family. I believe in nurturing those relationships and creating a supportive environment. Family isn't just about blood. It's about the people you choose to keep close. Even if they don't bother about you much , you must be there for them.

Shrika : That's such a thoughtful perspective.

Shrika said and her heart is swelling with warmth.

Shrika : Now, what's your biggest pet peeve ?

Sreethan chuckled lightly.

Sreethan : People who don't use their turn signals while driving ! It seems like such a small thing, but it drives me crazy.

Shrika : Totally agree !

Shrika laughed by finding his frustration relatable.

Shrika : Alright, number seven, do you believe in love at first sight ?

He paused by looking deep into her eyes.

Sreethan : I think there's definitely an initial spark that can happen in an instant. But real love takes time and effort to build. It's about getting to know someone's heart and soul, and I think that's where true connection lies. Communication is key, right ?

Shrika : Beautifully said. Eight, what qualities do you value in a partner ?

Sreethan : Honesty, kindness, and a great sense of humour. Life can throw challenges at you, and I want someone who can face them with me, someone who can lighten the mood when times get tough. It's important to find joy in the little moments together.

He answered , his gaze is steady and sincere.

Shrika felt a flutter in her chest at his words.

Shrika : That's so true ! Alright, number nine , what's your take on travel ?

Sreethan : Travel is essential for growth ! I love experiencing new cultures and meeting people from different backgrounds. Every trip teaches me something new, whether it's about food, history, or just different ways of living. Plus, it creates unforgettable memories.

He said and his enthusiasm is palpable.

Shrika : And finally , what's your favorite childhood memory ?

she asked and her curiosity is deepening.

Sreethan's expression turned nostalgic.

Sreethan : Building a treehouse with my father. It was a summer thing that took us weeks. We used scrap wood and old nails, and I remember how proud I felt when it was finally finished. It became our little sanctuary, a place where we could escape and dream. Those moments shaped who I am today.

Shrika felt her heart swell with emotion. Sreethan's answers were thoughtful and heartfelt, painting a picture of a man who was not only passionate about his career but also deeply connected to family and community. With each response, her admiration for him grew, making her feel an overwhelming sense of rightness in the moment. She felt like she found a rain forest in her quest to find a garden.

Shrika : You know ?

She said softly and her voice is almost a whisper,

Shrika : I think you might just be the kind of person I've been looking for.

Sreethan met her gaze and his expression is earnest.

Sreethan : I feel the same way, Shrika. There's something special about this conversation. But can i tell you something ?

As they exchanged smiles, Shrika realized she could genuinely see herself with him. The spark was undeniable, and in that moment, she felt a rush of certainty. Maybe this was the beginning of something wonderful. She eagerly asked him what ,

Shrika : what's that sreethan ? 

Sreethan : I just have one question to ask ! If i love your answer for that question , i'll ask further ! 

Shrika : Sure ! what's that ? 

Sreethan : Imagine we got married , Some 5 years passed. 

Shrika : Huh ? 

Sreethan : It's my birthday on that day. What you'll do ? How you'll treat me on that day ? 

Shrika : Well ! I guess you are not partying type. So, i'll just host a cozy party for just two us and may be our kids ? My treatment won't be anything different from daily life because I don't love people based on the importance of the day. Everyday is a celebration if we are truly into that person.

Sreethan's heart danced with happiness by listening to her response. This what he wanted to hear from the woman he wants to marry. He asked this question to many of his friends casually by asking them imagine their loved ones. But all of them have told that they will treat their partner specially.

Shrika : Sreethan ! 

Sreethan : Sorry ! I zoned out. I was just thinking about your words. 

Shrika : oh ! 

Sreethan : I don't have much preferences but i want my partner to be a good hearted and genuine person. Their personality doesn't matter to me but their nature and attitude matters to me. You definitely have what i am looking for ! 

Shrika : woah ! That's nice.

...........

A month had passed since Shrika and Sreethan first met, and each encounter had deepened their connection. Today marked their fifth meeting, and Shrika felt a familiar flutter of excitement in her chest as she arrived at the quaint café they often visited. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet aroma of pastries, creating a warm atmosphere that made her smile.

When Sreethan arrived, he was holding a small package with a hint of anticipation in his eyes. 

Sreethan : Hey, Shrika ! 

He greeted and his voice is cheerful. 

Sreethan : I brought you something.

Shrika : Oh ? What is it ? 

she asked and  her curiosity is piqued.

He handed her the gift, and she carefully unwrapped it to reveal a beautifully bound paperback book. The title made her eyes light up. 

............

How's the chapter ?