Just A Friend?

Chapter Seventeen

A Week Later

"Ma!" Prabhas's voice reverberated through the opulent corridors of the mansion, its echo a blend of urgency and frustration.

A profound silence followed his call, punctuated only by the faint clattering of utensils from the kitchen, where Sridevi was preoccupied with her culinary endeavors.

"Mom!" Prabhas's voice was now laced with exasperation, as if the walls themselves were conspiring against him in his quest for her attention. The quiet continued unabated.

"Ammaaaaa!" he roared, his patience reaching its limit, the reverberation of his call casting a temporary shadow over the house's tranquility.

From her sanctuary in the adjacent wing, Sridevi muttered under her breath, "This boy has gone utterly mad."

Her exasperation gave way to a resigned sigh as she called back, "I'm coming, I'm coming!"

As she entered Prabhas's room, she was immediately struck by the chaos before her eyes. The space looked like a tornado had made a fashion statement; clothes were strewn across the bed, and his wardrobe stood wide open, resembling a disheveled marketplace.

"What on earth is this, Prabhas?" she demanded, hands on her hips, her gaze sweeping over the disorder. "Have you forgotten that you're not a toddler anymore? This room is a disaster!"

"Ma!" Prabhas whined, his voice echoing his frustration. "I'm going to an ad photo shoot today! I need to look impeccable. I haven't the faintest idea what to wear!"

Sridevi, bemused, shook her head and advanced towards him. "You're not a model, darling; you're merely visiting the set. Why are you creating this fuss? Even Sweety wouldn't lose her composure like this!"

Prabhas pouted, exasperation evident in his features. "But, Amma, I'm seeing Sweety! I have to look presentable! It's crucial!"

Sridevi's heart melted at his earnestness. "Oh, my precious little boy!" she cooed, leaning in to plant a tender kiss on his forehead. "You're always charming. You don't need any extra embellishments."

With a broad, adoring smile, Prabhas's pout gave way to a grin. "Alright, you are the best mother," he said, pulling her cheeks affectionately.

Sridevi chuckled, her eyes twinkling with affection. "Oh, stop it with the sweet talk! Go on now; your Sweety must be waiting for you. And look at you, blushing like a schoolboy."

"Mom! Stop it! You're embarrassing me!" Prabhas protested, though his cheeks were already flushed with color. "I'm running late. Love you!"

He embraced her in a warm hug before dashing out of the room, a playful skip in his step as he went to face the day's adventures, leaving Sridevi to shake her head with an amused smile.

As he left, Sridevi couldn't help but smile fondly, knowing her son's heart was as big as his dramatic flair. 

_______^-^_______

Sweety sat in her lavish dressing room, surrounded by an array of beauty products and the gentle hum of her makeup artist, who meticulously applied the final touches to her look. The room was a haven of luxury, adorned with plush furnishings and elegant decor, reflecting Sweety's status as a prominent model. Amidst this pampering, Sweety was engaged in a spirited conversation with her mother on the phone.

"Ramya, do remember to take your medication today, will you?" Sweety's voice was both firm and affectionate, clearly demonstrating her concern. "You're not a child anymore. Yesterday, you managed to trick Appa into thinking you had taken it, but I'm not fooled."