Notes of Love

testing the notes

The morning had arrived, and with it, the anticipation that weighed heavily in the air. Nandini was up early, preparing not only for the day ahead but for the journey that Manik was about to embark on. She moved with quiet determination around the house, gathering the clothes for him—simple yet thoughtful. She picked out a soft brown shirt, a color that always suited his skin tone, and beige trousers that spoke of understated elegance. It was a look that would make him stand out but in the most natural way. She ironed them with care, her movements almost automatic, as though each press of the iron on the fabric was a prayer she silently offered for him.

She had already prepared the puja, the small prayer ceremony she always did before Manik went anywhere important. The incense burned gently, filling the room with a soothing fragrance. Nandini's eyes were closed as she muttered her prayers, her heart full of love and hope for him. It wasn't just a ritual for her; it was a moment where she asked the universe, or whatever force was guiding them, to give him the success he deserved.

Manik, who had been up early as well, watched her from a distance. He noticed the extra layer of tension that seemed to cling to her, more than he was feeling himself. She had always been the calm one, the pillar of support, but today, it was as though a nervous energy surrounded her. He could tell she was trying to hide it—her fingers slightly trembling as she finished tying the prayer cloth—but it was clear. He could see it in her eyes, in the way her lips pressed together with a hint of worry.

Manik stepped into the room just as she finished her prayer. He smiled softly, appreciating the gesture. She always had a way of making him feel grounded, no matter how chaotic the world around them was.

"Thank you," he murmured, his voice soft, his eyes sincere.

Nandini didn't say anything at first. She just nodded, her smile hesitant, but still filled with warmth. She handed him the clothes, a small gesture that carried so much meaning.

"You look great in anything," she said lightly, but her voice quivered just a little, betraying the anxiety she felt deep inside.

Manik noticed and felt his chest tighten. She was always his source of strength, and here she was, more anxious than he was. "Don't worry, I'll be fine," he reassured her, his hand reaching for hers. "This is just the start, and I know it's going to be great."

As he turned to leave, Nandini stepped closer to him, her fingers brushing against his arm. "Tell me how it goes," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, as if she feared the words might not reach him if she said them too loud.

Manik smiled at her, his heart swelling with affection. He leaned down and pulled her into a tight embrace, feeling her warmth and the fluttering beat of her heart against his chest. It was as though in that moment, they were both sharing the weight of this moment together.

He pressed a quick kiss to her lips, the sweetness of it lingering long after he pulled away. "All the best," Nandini murmured, her voice light but filled with the unspoken tension that still lingered in the air.

Manik chuckled softly, feeling a little more at ease with her by his side. "Aiyappa will save me," he said with a wink, trying to lighten the mood.

"Yeah, he will," Nandini replied with a soft laugh, though her nervousness hadn't quite dissipated. She kissed him on the cheek and, with a final squeeze of his hand, watched him leave.

Manik stepped out of the apartment, the cool morning air brushing against his face. His heart still raced with excitement and anticipation. Today could change everything. Today could be the day that would define his future.

The journey to the production house was short but felt like an eternity. He could barely contain the butterflies in his stomach as he stepped out of the car and into the building. He heaved a deep breath as he walked into the lobby, trying to calm his nerves. He was greeted by the team who would be overseeing the test, and they led him into a small meeting room where they explained the process.