chapter 24

YOU ARE THE RHYTHM OF MY HEART!Chapter 24 :As anticipated, the day arrived, and everyone dressed in their traditional attire to visit the temple. The elderly women helped Aadhya drape the pattu saree, which enhanced her beauty. She was adorned with golden jewelry, and her neatly braided hair was decorated with fragrant flowers.She looked stunning—so breathtakingly beautiful that she seemed like the nature goddess herself, descending from the heavens.Nandu, too, was dressed in a dhoti and kurta with the help of the younger men. His hair was neatly gelled and combed. While he always looked dashing and charming in his business attire, in traditional clothing, he exuded an aura of masculinity and regality. He didn’t just look handsome—he looked like a prince who had just ascended his throne.Outside, the men waited for the women to make their appearance, and Nandu, in particular, was eager to see Aadhya in her saree. He still remembered the day she wore one to the company, how furious he had been when other men couldn't take their eyes off her. But today was different. Today, he longed to see her, knowing full well that every man in town would glance at her in admiration. Yet, he didn’t care. Because she belonged to him, only to him.After what felt like an eternity, Janaki finally emerged from the house, with Chitra trailing behind her. Following them, MahaLaxmi and Saraswathi stepped out, with Aadhya gracefully walking between them, holding a plate containing a saree, sweets, flowers, and other pooja essentials.Nandu’s eyes were instantly glued to Aadhya. Her femininity radiated through the elegance of the saree, which draped her perfectly—every pleat in place, the pallu cascading over her shoulder. The delicate hangings from her ears enhanced her charm, while the gold jewelry added a divine grace to her appearance. The fragrant flowers adorning her braid, however, gave her a subtle sensuality that made his heart race.He couldn't take his eyes off her. He was drinking in every bit of her beauty, completely unaware of the other men discreetly watching him, amused by his open admiration.Aadhya, stepping out into the daylight, instinctively searched for Nandu. Her gaze soon found him, and for a moment, she was spellbound. Seeing him in the silk dhoti and kurta, perfectly tailored to his masculine frame, made her heart skip a beat. He looked like the very embodiment of manhood—a perfect idol of strength and grace. Her eyes wandered from his head to toe, taking in every detail—his sparkling eyes watching her with amusement, his lips curved into a satisfied smile, his broad shoulders evident beneath the kurta, and his long legs visible through the folds of the dhoti. Even in traditional attire, he commanded attention with his sheer presence.Their eyes met, and in that brief, silent exchange, they both admired each other. Nandu, with a teasing smile, let his gaze sweep from her head to toe, his eyes reflecting his appreciation. Aadhya blushed deeply, lowering her gaze, her cheeks tinted with a soft pink that only made her look even more enchanting.“If you’re done admiring each other, shall we move?”, a voice rang out, breaking the silence and startling both Aadhya and Nandu.They quickly turned toward the source and found Pranay standing there, smirking mischievously. The rest of the group was watching them as well, some with admiration, others teasingly, and a few offering playful grins.Realizing they had been caught, both Nandu and Aadhya quickly averted their gazes, looking around awkwardly. Their faces flushed pink with embarrassment at being openly caught in their silent exchange.Seetha Ramaiah, with a gentle yet teasing tone, lightly smacked Pranay on the head and scolded,“Don’t tease my kids. They’re just admiring each other in their traditional attire. Why disturb them?”.His words only deepened Nandu and Aadhya’s embarrassment. Their heads lowered further, neither daring to meet anyone’s gaze.Seetha Ramaiah then approached Nandu, patted his shoulder kindly, and said,“Nandu! Don’t be embarrassed. We are truly happy to see the bond you both share. I only wish that you continue this bond throughout your lives—without any ups and downs”.His voice was gentle yet filled with hope and blessing.Lifting his head, Nandu looked into Seetha Ramaiah’s eyes and replied with firm determination,“Grandpa! Until my last breath, I will keep Aadhya happy. I will shower her with love and ensure she never regrets choosing me. That is my promise”.His voice was steady and resolute, carrying the weight of his sincere commitment.Feeling satisfied with Nandu’s answer, Seetha Ramaiah beckoned Aadhya to come and stand beside him. With a gentle smile, he urged the young couple to walk together, side by side.Leading the way, Seetha Ramaiah walked ahead with Janaki, while Sudhakar and Mahalaxmi followed closely. Nandu and Aadhya trailed between them, side by side, their steps naturally syncing. Prabhakar and Saraswathi followed behind, along with the children, who skipped along playfully.Just as they began their walk towards the temple, a loud voice suddenly echoed through the air, calling out Aadhya’s name.“Aadhu…!”.-  *KRISH*