Cherished Moments
After the whirlwind of the proposal and the initial excitement, the time came for Avin's parents to return to Kerala. Before leaving, they sat down with Avin and Maya to discuss the next few days. Avin had requested to stay a bit longer in Coimbatore to spend some quality time with Maya, and both sets of parents were supportive of this decision.
"Take this time to really enjoy each other's company," Rajan advised with a knowing smile. "These moments are precious, and you'll cherish them forever."
With blessings from their parents, Avin and Maya planned a series of dates, eager to savor their engagement bliss before diving into wedding preparations.
Their first date was at Maya's favorite restaurant in Coimbatore, renowned for its exquisite South Indian cuisine. They shared a private booth, the ambiance perfect for a romantic evening. Over a spread of dosas, idlis, and coconut chutney, they reminisced about their first meeting and how far they had come since then.
"Remember how you tried to impress me with your idli making skills?" Maya teased, laughing as she recalled the memory.
Avin chuckled, "I think it was my charm that won you over, not my cooking!"
Next, they decided to catch a movie—a new release that Maya had been eager to see. Sitting in the darkened cinema, holding hands, the simple joy of being together felt magnified. After the movie, they strolled through the city under the stars, content in each other's silence and the night's serene beauty.
The highlight of their dates was a planned trip to Ooty. Known for its lush gardens, misty hills, and serene landscape, Ooty was the perfect getaway. They rented a cozy cottage on the outskirts of the town, surrounded by undulating hills and the scent of pine.
During their stay, they visited the famous Botanical Gardens, walked around Ooty Lake, and explored the quaint town. The cool climate and beautiful scenery were a refreshing escape from their daily routines.
One evening, as the sun set over the hills, casting a golden glow across the sky, Avin and Maya found themselves alone in their cottage, the warmth of the fireplace flickering softly in the background. The natural beauty and secluded setting felt like their own little world.
As they sat close together on the plush sofa, sharing a blanket, the conversation gradually faded into comfortable silence. The connection between them deepened, turning into a tender, passionate embrace. This moment marked their first as a truly committed couple, symbolizing their readiness to begin a new life together.
As they packed up to leave Ooty, both felt a bittersweet tug at their hearts. They were returning to Coimbatore, not just to the reality of their daily lives but to the exciting and daunting task of wedding preparations.
"Back to the real world," Avin sighed as they drove down the winding roads, the hills of Ooty receding in the background.
"But with you, every moment feels like a dream," Maya responded, her hand finding his.