Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 23 : Ilakiya's Dilemma

    "Not again," Mrs Meera grumbled as Ilakiya marked the day red on the table calendar. It had been six months since Ilakiya and Suresh had married and she was expecting an offspring.

    Ilakiya heard the murmur but didn't react. Instead, she focused on preparing breakfast for Suresh and herself as he got ready for work. As she sat down to eat, she couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. She knew her mother-in-law, Mrs Meera, was growing impatient, as she had been hinting at the possibility of a grandchild for weeks now.

    Mrs Meera said, "Ilakiya, I had hoped this month is the month for us to finally hear good news."

    Ilakiya replied, "I understand your excitement, athéy, but we can't rush these things. It will happen when it's meant to happen."

    Mrs Meera sighed, "I know, I know. I just can't help but be eager to hold my grandchild in my arms."

    Ilakiya smiled, "I understand. And I promise, as soon as we have any news, you'll be the first to know."

    Mrs Meera nodded, "I'll hold you to that."

    The truth was, Ilakiya was still a virgin. Initially, it was her idea to postpone the consummation because she was still reeling from a heartbreak. She had loved Anbu deeply and had been devastated when their relationship ended.

    However, she had made up her mind and got over her ex soon after that. But she didn't know what was on Suresh's mind. She had tried hinting at him a few times, but it seemed like he wasn't interested.

    At one point, she tried spooning with him, but he had just cuddled with her and fallen asleep. Ilakiya had felt rejected and was left wondering what was wrong with her.

    She said, "Suresh, is everything okay? You seem distant lately."

    Suresh replied, "I'm fine, just a bit tired from work."

    Ilakiya nodded, "Okay, just let me know if you need anything."

    At another time, she had tried changing clothes in front of him in the nude, in the hopes of getting him excited, but he had just looked at her and then continued fiddling with his tablet. Ilakiya felt embarrassed and ashamed.

    She thought, "Maybe he doesn't find me attractive anymore. Or maybe he's in love with someone else."

    Ilakiya knew she needed to talk to Suresh about her concerns, but she didn't know how to bring up the subject without hurting his feelings or starting an argument. 

     She was determined to confront him directly and have an open conversation about it. As soon as she finished breakfast, she walked into the room where Suresh was getting ready for work.

    "Baby, I want to ask you something," she began, trying to sound as calm and confident as possible. "Remember on our wedding night when I told you that I would let you know when I was ready? Well, I'm ready now. I've been thinking about it for a while and I'm ready to start trying for a baby."

    Suresh nodded while humming without replying. He turned to her and smiled. "We don't have to rush now," he said. "You've got to finish your chambering and graduate. I'm working on my promotion project now. You're still young and we have all the time in the world."

    Ilakiya felt a sense of disappointment. She couldn't help but feel like they were delaying something that they both wanted.

    "But your mom seems to be impatient," Ilakiya pointed out. "She's been hinting at wanting a grandchild for weeks now. And my parents are also asking when we're going to start a family."

    Suresh reassured her, "Old timers are like that. They'll keep pushing you to the next progression in life. We don't have to stress ourselves about that. Let's focus on our careers and our future first."

    Ilakiya understood, but she couldn't shake off the feeling of disappointment.

    Suresh noticing the discomfort, pulled Ilakiya close and kissed her passionately. "Don't worry too much, baby," he said. "If my mom makes you uncomfortable, I'll talk to her. But now I've got work to attend. I'll see you in the evening."

    Ilakiya nodded, understanding that Suresh had a point, but still feeling a sense of disappointment. She watched as he left for work, thinking about how they would navigate their desires and the expectations of their families.

    After he left, Ilakiya also changed and left for work. On the way to work, she kept thinking about her conversation with Suresh, replaying it in her mind and analyzing it from different perspectives. She thought about the different ways they could balance their desire to start a family with their career aspirations, and how they could address the expectations of their families. Ilakiya made a mental note to talk to Suresh again once they both were free and try to come to a mutual understanding.

    As she reached her workplace, Ilakiya decided to put her feelings aside and focus on her work. She was currently doing her chambering practice at a legal aid center and had been assigned a case of a couple seeking divorce. Ilakiya was representing the husband in this case.

    She spent the morning going over the case details and preparing her arguments. As she studied the case, she found that the wife was seeking a divorce because the husband was infertile. Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy for the husband, as she herself had just had a conversation with her own husband about starting a family.

    She knew that representing a client in a divorce case could be emotionally taxing, but she was determined to do her best and provide her client with the best representation possible. Ilakiya took the time to understand her client's perspective, and his reasons for wanting to save the marriage despite his infertility.

    She prepared her arguments, highlighting the emotional and financial contributions of the husband to the marriage and how his infertility should not be the sole reason for the divorce. Ilakiya also emphasized the importance of communication and finding alternative options such as adoption or surrogacy to fulfill the desire of starting a family.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 22 : Wedding Night

    Suresh and Ilakiya arrived at the groom's place, where they were greeted by the sumangalis (married elder ladies) who performed an Aarti for the newlywed couple. Ilakiya felt a sense of warmth and happiness as the sumangalis blessed them with a lit lamp, welcoming them into the family with open arms. As a token of appreciation, Suresh put a few RM 50 notes on the plate, expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome.

    Once inside the house, the couple was served with a nourishing meal of fruits and milk mixed with almonds. "Here, take a sip, baby," Suresh said as he handed Ilakiya the cup after taking a sip himself. Ilakiya smiled and finished the rest, it was a family tradition after all, passed down through generations. The meal was believed to be both nourishing and auspicious for the couple, symbolizing prosperity and fertility.

    While the newlyweds waited in the living room, chatting and thanking the relatives, a team of decorators was busy transforming the room into a romantic haven. Ilakiya couldn't help but feel excited, "Wow, look at this beautiful decoration, Suresh, it's so beautiful," she said. Suresh smiled and replied, "Yes, it's perfect for our first night together." The room was decorated with diyas and flowers, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

    Suresh was sent into the room first while Ilakiya was escorted in later by young unmarried girls. As per customs, the young girls would laugh three times at the doorway before sending the bride in. The tradition was believed to ward off any negative energy or evil spirits and ensure that the couple's first night together was peaceful and free of any negative influences. It was also thought to be a way of wishing the couple a joyful and fulfilling sexual relationship.

    Suresh was waiting nervously for his wife, his heart racing with anxiety. As Ilakiya entered the room, one of the girls playfully teased them from outside, "Enjoy you two! Don't be too shy now!" Ilakiya blushed.

    Suresh tried to lighten the mood by smiling and saying, "Don't worry, I'll take it from here." He could hear the girls giggling from the outside and knew they were probably wondering how the couple was faring on their first night together. Ilakiya, feeling shy and unsure of what to do, touched Suresh's feet to seek his blessings.

    Suresh, noticing her discomfort, lifted her up and said, "Don't bother yourself with these old formalities and feel free. We used to live in this same house together, but in different rooms. But somehow today feels special." He took her hand and led her to the bed, where they sat together.

    Ilakiya, still feeling a bit uneasy, asked, "What do we do now?" Suresh, sensing her nerves, replied, "Let's just sit here and talk. We have our whole lives together, there's no need to rush." Ilakiya felt a sense of relief and nodded in agreement. But the silence that followed was awkward.

    Ilakiya had mixed feelings about the situation. Just a few weeks ago, she was happily in a relationship with someone else, and now she was sitting next to her husband, feeling unsure and guilty.

    Suresh, sensing Ilakiya's discomfort, took her hand and said, "Ilakiya, I know this is hard for you. But let's start fresh, forget about the past, and build a future together. I promise to be a good husband to you." 

    He spoke the words with conviction, but deep down, he knew that he was hiding a secret from her - he was suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED). He had not yet opened up about this to anyone, not even his family. He knew that eventually, Ilakiya would discover his problem too. He was just prolonging the inevitable.

    As they sat on the bed together, Suresh couldn't help but feel a sense of fear and anxiety. He didn't want to disappoint Ilakiya or make her feel unwanted. He didn't know how to broach the subject or if he should bring it up at all.

    Ilakiya, unaware of Suresh's inner turmoil, smiled and said, "I know this is a special night, and I know you have all the privileges over me as my husband. But as you know, I've just come out of a heartbreak and this marriage seems too rushed for me. Can we please postpone this consummation for now? Give me some time to heal and come to terms with everything. I'll give myself to you fully when I'm ready. Trust me."

    Suresh felt a sense of relief wash over him as he heard Ilakiya's words. He had been worried about how she would react to his secret. He replied, "Of course, Ilakiya. I understand and I'm here for you. Take all the time you need."

    Ilakiya smiled, feeling a sense of trust and comfort in Suresh's words. 

    As the night drew to a close, Ilakiya said, "I'm feeling quite tired after a long day of wedding ceremonies, I think I just want to sleep now." Suresh, understanding her exhaustion, agreed and suggested they retire for the night. They both climbed into the same bed but decided to sleep separately, respecting each other's need for space and privacy.

    Ilakiya snuggled into the blankets, feeling grateful for Suresh's understanding and patience.          

    As Suresh lay on his side of the bed, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that he had managed to evade another day without revealing his secret. But he also knew that he couldn't keep this secret from Ilakiya forever. He couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt for not being honest with her from the start.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 21 : Healing

    Anbu stepped into the yoga studio, looking around with interest. The receptionist greeted him with a smile and asked if he was looking for someone. "Yes," Anbu replied, "I'm looking for Geetha. She's a college friend of mine." The receptionist looked blank, clearly not recognizing the name.

    Anbu looked past her and noticed a neatly drawn organization chart on the wall, with photos of each member accompanied by their name and position within the organization. He started from the bottom and worked his way up, scanning the names and faces for Geetha. As he reached the top of the chart, he saw her. Sangeetha Rathnavel. Managing Director of Malaysia Yoga Institution (MAYI).

    Anbu pointed to the chart and said to the receptionist, "That's her, Sangeetha Rathnavel." The receptionist's eyes widened in recognition. "Oh, yes," she said, "Ms. Sangeetha is the Managing Director here. She's very busy, but I'll let her know you're here."

    Anbu thanked the receptionist and waited patiently as she made the call. A few minutes later, Sangeetha emerged from a back room, a look of surprise and delight on her face. "Anbu!" she exclaimed, "What are you doing here? It's been ages!"

    Anbu smiled and replied, "I was in the area and thought I'd drop by and say hello. I never knew you'd become such a big shot!"

    Sangeetha laughed. "It's been quite a journey," she said. "But come, let me give you a tour of the studio and we can catch up." And with that, the two old friends walked off together, chatting and laughing as they went.

    "I'm glad you're here, Anbu," she said. "I've been looking forward to having you in my meditation class. I think it will be beneficial for you." With that, she gestured for him to follow her and led him into her private office space. She instructed the receptionist to not disturb them and closed the door behind them.

    Once they were seated, Sangeetha turned to Anbu with a look of concern. "Anbu, is everything okay? I can sense that something is troubling you," she said, her voice filled with genuine care and empathy. 

    Anbu felt a wave of relief wash over him, knowing that he could talk to Sangeetha about his problems and that she would understand. 

    He opened up to Sangeetha about his recent breakup and how it had affected his work performance and family relationships. Sangeetha listened attentively, nodding and offering words of encouragement as he spoke. He shared with her about how he was struggling to cope with the emotional turmoil, feeling lost and alone.

    When he was done, Sangeetha assured him that the troubles he was facing could be remedied with meditation. "Anbu, I know this might be hard for you to believe right now, but I promise you, meditation can help you get out of this problem in no time. It will help you to clear your mind, and regain your focus, balance and peace." she said with a calm and soothing voice.

    Anbu looked at her skeptically, "I'm not sure, Geetha. I've never tried meditation before, and I'm not sure it's for me."

    Sangeetha smiled reassuringly, "That's understandable, but I assure you, meditation is for everyone. It's a simple practice that can bring a lot of benefits to your life. It will help you to let go of the past, and find inner peace. It will help you to gain clarity and focus, and to improve your relationships with others."

    Anbu thought about it for a moment, then nodded. "Okay, I'll give it a try." he said.

    Sangeetha smiled, "That's great, Anbu. I'm sure you'll find that meditation will be a valuable tool for you on your journey to healing and growth."

    With that, Sangeetha shared some basic meditation techniques with Anbu and scheduled him for a regular class. Anbu left the studio feeling a sense of hope and determination, ready to try meditation and start working on his emotional well-being.

    As Anbu started visiting the yoga studio regularly for Sangeetha's meditation classes, he grew closer and closer to her. Initially, he used to call her "Geetha," as he had known her in college, but as they spent more time together, he started to call her "Sang," a shortened version of her name that seemed to reflect the intimacy of their relationship. They started to hang out together outside of the studio, exploring the city and trying new restaurants.

    Their relationship was somewhat ambiguous, somewhere between romance and friendship. Neither of them was quite sure where they stood with each other, but they found comfort in each other's company. Sangeetha was a great listener and a source of support for Anbu as he navigated his emotional turmoil, and Anbu provided Sangeetha with a sense of excitement and adventure.

    They both found themselves looking forward to their time together, whether it was in the studio or out exploring the city. They enjoyed each other's company so much that they started to spend more and more time together, and soon, they realized that they had developed feelings for each other. They were unsure how to proceed, but they both knew that their relationship had grown into something special, something worth exploring further.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 20 : Happily Ever After?

    The atmosphere at the Midlands temple where Ilakiya and Suresh's wedding was taking place was one of grandeur and festivity. The temple, which was typically known for its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere, had been transformed into a grand wedding venue.

    The decorations around the temple were elaborate, with vibrant colors and intricate designs adorning the walls and pillars. Flowers and lights had been used to add an extra touch of beauty and elegance to the ceremony. The wedding altar where the ceremony takes place, was decorated with marigold flowers and banana leaves, adding a touch of tradition and culture to the wedding.

    The audience of the ceremony was a mix of family, friends and community members, all dressed in their finest traditional attire. The men were wearing traditional kurta-vesthi while the women were dressed in colorful sarees, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

    The food arrangements were also grand and delicious. There were a variety of Indian vegetarian dishes being served, and the aroma of the food added to the festive atmosphere. There was a special area for the guests to sit and enjoy the meal.

    The wedding ceremony itself was a grand function, thanks to Mrs Meera. From the traditional rituals to the music, dance, and decorations, everything was arranged to perfection, making it a memorable and special event for everyone present.

    Overall, the ambiance at the Midlands temple was one of grandeur, festivity, and tradition, making it a perfect setting for the wedding of Ilakiya and Suresh.

    As Mr. Gopi, stood in the front row of the wedding ceremony, his heart was filled with a mix of emotions. He couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and happiness as he watched his daughter, Ilakiya was seated at the altar next to Suresh, the man she was about to marry. "I am so happy for my little girl," he thought to himself.

    But Gopi's thoughts were also filled with gratitude towards Mrs. Meera, Suresh's mother. He remembered the events that took place when they discovered that Ilakiya had been unfaithful to Suresh with her ex-boyfriend, Anbu. He had feared that the news would spread like wildfire, tarnishing the reputation of his family.

    But Mrs. Meera had surprised him with her unwavering support. "We trust Ilakiya and we know she's innocent," she had said. "We don't need to prove anything to anyone." And to Suresh, she said, "I trust Ilakiya and you should too. You have to accept her for who she is." 

    With her wise words and her trust, the marriage was expedited, and the news of Ilakiya's infidelity did not spread. For that, Gopi was indebted to Mrs. Meera for life. He knew that her big heart and wise words had saved his family's honor and he will always be grateful to her.

    Gopi stood at the altar, holding Ilakiya's hand tightly as he performed the traditional Kanyadaanam ceremony. He couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions - responsibility, pride, and a hint of sadness as he officially gave away his daughter in marriage.

    As Suresh stepped forward to apply Sindoor on Ilakiya's forehead and tied the Mangalsutra around her neck, Gopi's heart swelled with joy. 

    The temple priests recited mantras and performed the rituals, and Gopi couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he watched the union of the couple being sanctified by the divine.

    As Ilakiya and Suresh exchanged flower garlands, symbolizing their acceptance of each other, Gopi couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and contentment. He knew that his daughter was in good hands and that her future was bright.

    When the wedding ceremony came to an end, and the guests began to leave, Mr. Gopi sought out Mrs. Meera. He was overcome with emotion, tears welling up in his eyes as he held her hands.

     "Mrs. Meera, I can't thank you enough for your magnanimity," he said, his voice shaking with gratitude. "If it wasn't for you, my family would have died of shame because of Ilakiya's behavior. You are like a family deity to us."

    Gopi asked her what he could do in return for her kindness. Mrs. Meera smiled and replied, "All I want is for Ilakiya to bear the fruit of my son's love, a child. That would make me the happiest woman in the world."

    Gopi's eyes widened in surprise and then a smile crossed his face as he realized that this was the best gift that he could give to Meera. He promised her that he will do everything in his power to make it happen.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 19 : Pre-wedding Chronicles

Ilakiya woke up early on the day of her nalungu ceremony, her heart filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was the final pre-wedding ritual before her wedding ceremony the next morning and it was an important tradition in her culture.

As Ilakiya got ready for her nalungu ceremony, she couldn't help but think about the memories of Anbu, her ex-lover. She knew that the relationship was short-lived, but the memories of it will last her lifetime. She regrets that the sweet time had come to an end, but she knew that she had to move on and focus on the present.

Ilakiya was getting married to Suresh, the groom chosen by her parents and whom she had loved before she met Anbu. She realized that life does not always end up like we desire it to be. Sometimes, we have to accept the reality and move on from there. It was a difficult decision for her to make, but she knew it was for the best.

As she sat down on the wooden plank for the nalungu ceremony, Ilakiya took a deep breath and pushed the thoughts of Anbu to the back of her mind. She focused on the present, on the love and support of her family and friends, and on the future she would be building with Suresh.

The nalungu ceremony was an important tradition in her culture and she wanted to fully embrace it. As her maternal uncles, aunts, and close family friends smeared her face with turmeric and sandal paste, Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the new chapter in her life that was about to begin. Ilakiya thanked each of them with a smile and gave away 'kaalaanji' as a token of appreciation.

One of her favorite aunts, Mrs. Kavya, sat beside her and held her hand. "I can't believe my favorite niece is all grown up and ready to enter marital bliss," she said, tears welling up in her eyes. Ilakiya couldn't help but cry a little too, feeling the overwhelming emotions of the day.

Mrs. Kavya hugged her tightly and said, "Ilakiya, my dear, you have a huge responsibility and pride of our family on your shoulders. You are not just representing yourself, but you are representing the entire family. As a bride, it's important to maintain the family's honor and respect. Make sure to be good to your in-laws, respect them and their customs. Also, make sure to gain a good reputation among them. Remember, any bad reputation will tarnish the pride of our family."

Ilakiya could feel her heart heavy with the weight of the responsibility that she was taking on. She knew that maintaining the family's honor and respect was of utmost importance. She didn't want to disappoint her family or tarnish their reputation.

"I understand, athé. I will make sure to be good to my in-laws, respect them and their customs, and maintain a good reputation among them," Ilakiya replied in a choked voice, wiping her tears.

Mrs. Kavya smiled and hugged Ilakiya again, "I know you will, my dear. You are a strong and responsible girl. But remember, If you ever need anything or have any problems, don't hesitate to come to me. I will always be here for you."

Ilakiya hugged her aunt back, feeling grateful for her love and support. She took a deep breath and prepared herself for the journey ahead, ready to take on the responsibility and pride of her family

She resolved to leave memories of Anbu behind. She had loved him deeply, and the thought of him still pained her. She had seen him at places, but avoided making any eye contact, she knew that it was best for both of them if they moved on. Ilakiya even went as far as to threaten Anbu through messages, asking him not to contact her or attend her wedding. Though her actions may have seemed cruel, she knew it was for his own good. He deserved to move on and find happiness, just as she was doing with Suresh.

Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness as she thought about the memories of Anbu. But she knew that it was time to close that chapter of her life and move forward with Suresh. 

She closed her eyes and prayed that Anbu finds a better soulmate and is blessed with all the happiness in the world. Without her realizing, tears started flowing from her eyes.

Mrs. Kavya, who was sitting beside her, noticed her tears and embraced her. "Don't worry dear," she said, "Everything will be fine."

 Ilakiya nodded, feeling comforted by her aunt's words. She took a deep breath and wiped her tears. She knew she had to be strong for herself and for her family. She would make sure to build a strong and loving relationship with Suresh, and make her family proud.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 18 : The Fall and Rise of Anbu

Anbu had always thought that his relationship with Ilakiya was unbreakable. They had shared countless happy memories together and had built a life full of dreams and plans for the future. They laughed together, dreamed together, and loved each other unconditionally. He had never felt this way about anyone before and he thought that they were meant to be together forever.

But, when Ilakiya abruptly ended things, it felt like a bomb had exploded in his life. He couldn't understand why she would do this to him, and the feelings of anger, hurt, and betrayal consumed him. He couldn't shake off the feeling of rejection and abandonment. He felt like he had lost a part of himself, and he couldn't imagine living without her.

"I can't believe she just left me like this. I gave her everything, my time, my love, my future. And she just throws it all away like it meant nothing to her," Anbu thought to himself, as he struggled to make sense of what had just happened. "How could she do this to me? How could she just walk away from everything we had?"

The pain and confusion he felt was overwhelming, and he couldn't shake off the feeling of betrayal. He had invested so much of himself into the relationship and now it was gone, and he was left with nothing but a broken heart and a feeling of emptiness

Anbu tried desperately to reach out to Ilakiya, to understand the reason for the break-up, but all his attempts were met with failure. He sent her countless text messages and left voicemails, pleading with her to talk to him, to explain what had gone wrong.

"Ilakiya please, I just want to talk. I need to understand why you did this."

"I'm sorry if I did something wrong, please tell me so I can fix it."

"I love you, please don't do this to me."

However, none of his messages ever reached her. She had blocked him on all social networks and changed her phone number. He realized that she didn't want to have any contact with him, and his messages were just falling on deaf ears. He felt like he had been erased from her life, and it was a constant reminder of the rejection and abandonment he felt. He felt like he was hitting a dead end, and the more he tried to reach her, the more he felt the pain of rejection.

Anbu's mind was consumed with thoughts of Ilakiya, leaving him unable to focus on anything else. The constant rumination over their relationship and the reasons for its end took a toll on his mental and physical well-being. He found himself struggling to sleep and eat, losing weight and energy at an alarming rate. He dropped over 10kg in a month, his clothes were loose and he looked gaunt.

His mother noticed the change in him and confronted him about his weight loss. "Anbu, what's going on? You've lost so much weight, are you not eating? Is everything okay?" she asked with concern in her voice.

Anbu ignored her and just shrugged, "I'm fine, just busy with work," he replied, avoiding her gaze.

"I can't believe she's gone, and I don't know why. I can't focus on anything else, I can't even paint or write anymore," Anbu thought to himself, as he sat alone in his room, staring at the blank canvas in front of him. "I used to find solace in my art and music, but now it all feels pointless without her."

Anbu's performance at work started to degrade as his obsession with Ilakiya consumed him. He found it difficult to focus on his tasks and became increasingly distracted, neglecting his responsibilities and making mistakes. His colleagues and supervisors began to notice the change in his behavior and started to express their concerns.

His colleagues would notice his constant distraction and ask, "Anbu, is everything okay? You've been distant lately, and your work is suffering."

He would reply, "I'm fine, just a lot on my mind."

His supervisor would pull him aside and say "Anbu, I'm worried about you, your work has been slipping and you've been making mistakes. I need you to focus, or we may have to consider other options."

Anbu knew that his behavior was affecting his work, but he couldn't shake off the thoughts of Ilakiya. He realized that he needed to do something about it before it was too late.

Anbu became obsessed with understanding the reason behind Ilakiya's sudden departure from his life. He spent hours stalking her online, going through her social media profiles, and trying to gather information from mutual friends. He was desperate to know more about her future husband, marriage plans, and other aspects of her life. He would see her pictures online, smiling and happy, with her fiance and it was like a knife through his heart. The images haunted him, fueling his anger and desire for revenge. He couldn't accept that she was happy while he was left in a state of pain and suffering.

"How could she do this to me? How could she just use me when she needed me and then abandon me like I'm nothing? I can't believe she'd be so inhumane," Anbu thought to himself as he stared at a picture of Ilakiya and her fiance. "I have to make her pay, I have to make her feel the same pain that I'm feeling."

His obsession with understanding why she left him and seeking revenge was all-consuming, it was affecting his mental and physical well-being, his relationships

Anbu became fixated on the idea of getting revenge on Ilakiya, and he would stop at nothing to make her feel the same pain that he was feeling. He began sending her hate messages via anonymous social media profiles, using vile and abusive language to try and hurt her. He spent all of his time and energy trying to find new ways to make her suffer, even going so far as to stalk her in person. 

He would show up at her college and usual hangout spots uninvited, watching her from a distance, and trying to intimidate her. His behavior became increasingly disturbing and obsessive, as he became consumed with the idea of making Ilakiya pay for what she had done to him.

Anbu's behavior became increasingly erratic and unstable as his obsession with revenge consumed him. He became increasingly aggressive and short-tempered, lashing out at anyone who crossed his path. His once kind and gentle demeanor had been replaced with a constant anger and hostility.

His friends and family noticed the change in him and started to distance themselves. They couldn't deal with his constant outbursts and negative attitude. They were worried about him and tried to intervene, but he would just push them away.

His best friend, Ram, confronted him, "Anbu, what's going on with you? You're not yourself anymore. You're always angry and lashing out at people."

Anbu replied, "Dude, just leave me alone."

His sister, Sowmi, also tried to reach out to him, "Anbu, we're worried about you. You're not the same person anymore. You're always so angry and distant."

Anbu just shrugged her off and said, "Don't you have other things to do? Don't go around poking your nose in my business."

His behavior started to affect his relationships and career, as he became increasingly difficult to deal with. His colleagues and supervisors started to avoid him, and he started to lose his friends. He was consumed by his obsession and was unable to see the damage it was causing to himself and the people around him.

His once-promising career also started to suffer as a result of his behavior. He would miss deadlines, neglect his responsibilities and make mistakes that cost the company. His colleagues and supervisors started to lose faith in his abilities, and he was passed over for promotions and opportunities. He was in danger of losing his job, and his reputation in the industry was at stake.

One day, his boss Mr. Vannia called him into his office for a meeting.

"Anbu, I need to talk to you about your work performance. At first impression, you seemed to me like a promising candidate for my position some day. I had high hopes for you. But lately, your performance has been slipping, you've been missing deadlines and making mistakes," Mr. Vannia said, with a stern look on his face."Are you having any personal problems?"

Anbu tried to defend himself, "I'm sorry, I've just had a lot on my mind lately."

"That's not an excuse, Anbu. Your work is suffering and it's affecting your future prospects in the company," Mr. Vannia replied. "I'm telling you this because I care about you. Take a few days off. Solve your problems. It would be such a shame if we let a talent like yours go to waste due to personal problems."

Anbu knew that his behavior was affecting his work, but he couldn't shake off the thoughts of Ilakiya. He realized that he needed to do something about it before it was too late. He realized that his obsession with revenge was not only hurting Ilakiya but also himself and the people around him

He realized that Ilakiya was not worth the pain he had caused himself and others. He finally decided to let go of his anger and moved on. 

Mr. Vannia noticed Anbu's renewed resolve from his expression and suggested, "Anbu, I think you need to get some help. I suggest you take a look at this yoga institution, they have some really good meditation classes that helped me maintain focus amidst difficult situations I faced before."

He handed Anbu a pamphlet and continued, "It's worth a shot, and it won't hurt to try. It helped me, and I'm sure it will help you too."

Anbu took the pamphlet and looked at it. To his surprise, one of the main coordinators of the organization was his college friend Geetha. He couldn't believe that the person who could help him was someone he knew.

Anbu thanked Mr. Vannia for the suggestion and left the office.

He called Geetha, "Hey Geetha, it's Anbu. I heard you're working at this yoga institution, I think I need some help, can I join your classes?"

Geetha replied with excitement, "Anbu! It's so good to hear from you. Yes, of course, I'll be happy to help you. When can you come to our next class?"

Anbu realized that the help he needed was right in front of him all along, and he was grateful that Mr. Vannia suggested the yoga institution and that he reconnected with Geetha.

During the class, Anbu opened up to Geetha about his obsession with Ilakiya and how it had consumed him.

Geetha listened patiently and then said, "Anbu, you need to let go of the past and focus on the present. You can't change what happened, but you can control how you react to it. Through meditation and yoga, you can learn to let go of your anger and find peace within yourself."

Anbu decided to follow her guidance, and with time, he hoped to let go of his anger and obsession. He started working on finding peace within himself and to move on with his life. 

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 17 : A Revelation And A Warning

Anbu was left reeling from heartbreak when Ilakiya abruptly ended their relationship without any explanation. He was unable to comprehend the reason for the breakup and couldn't recall any specific instances where he may have made a mistake. The sudden and unexplained nature of the breakup left him feeling confused and in disbelief.

As he tried to make sense of the situation, Anbu couldn't shake off a nagging thought that had been plaguing him since the day of their breakup. He noticed that Ilakiya was wearing a gold ring on her finger, one that he didn't recognize. It wasn't the white gold ring he had gifted her when he proposed. 

The memory of the proposal, the heartfelt note he had written for her, was still fresh in his mind.

"My dearest Ilakiya,

The moment I met you, I knew that you were the one for me. Every day since then, my love for you has only grown stronger. You make my heart skip a beat with just a smile, and I cannot imagine my life without you.

I want to spend every moment of every day by your side, building a future filled with love and happiness. I want to wake up every morning to your beautiful face and fall asleep every night with you in my arms.

With this ring, I ask you to be my partner, my confidant, my best friend, and my forever love. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?

Yours forever,

Anbu"

Anbu nervously got down on one knee in the picturesque Titiwangsa Park, holding the ring and the note tightly in his hand. Ilakiya looked at him, her eyes filled with love and curiosity. He took a deep breath and began to read the heartfelt words he had written for her. As he spoke, Ilakiya's eyes welled up with happy tears and a smile spread across her face.

When he asked her to be his wife, she threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly and whispering a joyful "yes." Anbu slipped the ring on her finger, and they both looked at it, admiring how the ring sparkled in the sunlight. Ilakiya couldn't stop smiling and tears of happiness were streaming down her face. They shared a kiss, sealing their love and commitment to each other.

The park around them seemed to fade away as they lost themselves in the moment, surrounded by love and happiness. It was a moment he would treasure forever.

Anbu couldn't understand what had happened after their holiday together. He had no idea why Ilakiya had ended their relationship and there was no way for him to confront her about it as she had blocked him on all communication channels. The sudden and unexplained nature of the breakup left him feeling confused and desperate for answers. He couldn't shake off the feeling that something had changed between them, but without the ability to communicate with Ilakiya, he was left in the dark.

Anbu found solace in listening to the melodies of Ilayaraja, a musician he had always loved. He would often listen to Ilayaraja's music when he was feeling down or needed to relax. The music was a reminder of happier times and had a way of soothing his troubled mind. As he listened, it felt like the music was speaking to him, comforting him and helping him to make sense of his emotions.

Anbu found himself browsing online on MIRC, as he used to do, but this time he was not in the mood to chat with anyone. Suddenly, he received a direct message from a familiar nickname, Ilakiya86.

Ilakiya86: Hi, I need to tell you something important.

Anbu was surprised and taken aback by the unexpected message. He couldn't imagine what Ilakiya could have to say to him.

Anbu82: Hi Ilakiya, how long have I waited to hear from you. How are you? I've missed you do much.

Ilakiya86: I am already engaged and my marriage is coming soon.

The news hit Anbu like a bolt from the blue, leaving him reeling with shock and confusion. He didn't know how to react or what to say, the conversation was not what he was expecting at all.

Anbu82: What do you mean?

Ilakiya86: I'm sorry Anbu, I should have told you earlier. I have been engaged for the past one year and initially planned to conduct the marriage after graduation. But due to unavoidable circumstances, the marriage got expedited.

Anbu felt cheated, deceived. He had been the fool in this relationship. She played the double game. He couldn't think of anything to say, he was speechless.

Anbu82: I don't know what to say. This is all so sudden and unexpected.

Ilakiya86: I understand it might be hard for you to accept, but please try to understand my situation. And please don't make any attempt to contact me or attend my wedding ceremony.

As she typed the messages, Anbu received an alert for a file transfer request. He accepted it and downloaded it to find it was a scanned copy of her wedding invitation. The shock of the news hit him even harder now that he saw the proof of her forthcoming marriage. He felt a mix of emotions, anger, hurt, betrayal and also a feeling of being used.

Anbu82: I can't believe this is happening. I feel like I have been used.

Ilakiya86: I am sorry Anbu, I never intended to hurt you. But please understand my situation.

Anbu couldn't understand how she could have been engaged to someone else and still be in a relationship with him. He felt like he was living in a nightmare and he needed time to come to terms with it all.

Ilakiya86: And please don't make any attempt to contact me or attend my wedding ceremony. And I want you to delete all evidence of our relationship. If I find any evidence surfaced anywhere to tarnish my image and respect, you will meet dire consequences.

Anbu was furious upon reading this message. He couldn't believe that she would threaten him like that after keeping him in the dark about her engagement and using him. He felt like he was being punished for something he didn't know about.

Anbu: This is ridiculous. How can you threaten me like this? You played games with my heart and now you want me to forget everything we had?

Ilakiya86: I am sorry if it seems like a threat, but I have to protect my family's reputation and my future.

Anbu: You'll never find peace and happiness anywhere in the world!

With that, Ilakiya went offline, leaving Anbu alone with his thoughts and emotions. He was left feeling angry, hurt and betrayed by the person he thought he loved. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he had been used and that all their relationship was based on a lie. He was speechless and didn't know what to do next. He was still in the state of shock, anger and hurt from the betrayal he faced.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 16 : Lost Love

Anbu couldn't believe what was happening. He had been in a blissful relationship with Ilakiya for several weeks and everything seemed to be going great. They had recently returned from a romantic holiday at Genting Highlands and everything seemed perfect.

When he dropped her off at the station, he noticed a sudden change in Ilakiya's behavior. She was crying and refusing to say goodbye to him.

Anbu's heart sank as he walked away after dropping her off. He couldn't understand why she was acting this way.

After that, Ilakiya completely stopped speaking to him.

Anbu couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong and he didn't know what to do about it. 

Anbu's heart ached as he realized that Ilakiya was avoiding him. Thought of losing her made him feel lost and alone. 

At first, he tried to brush it off, thinking that she was just tired and needed rest, but as the days passed, he couldn't shake the feeling that something was seriously wrong.

He sent messages, but they weren't going through. He called her, but the calls either got cut off or declined. He could sense that the intimacy they had shared was gone

Anbu was at a loss. He couldn't understand why the woman he loved was pushing him away. He had tried to give her space, thinking it would help her open up to him, but it only seemed to make things worse.

Ilakiya became more distant and Anbu felt like he was losing her. He didn't know how to reach her or what to do to fix things. The thought of losing her was tearing him apart. He felt confused, hurt, and helpless in the face of her growing distance. He didn't know if he should try harder to reach her or if he should just let her go. The uncertainty was eating away at him and he didn't know how much longer he could take it.

He knew he needed answers, and he knew it was time to confront Ilakiya. He mustered up the courage to go to her college to talk to her in person.

He found her sitting alone on a bench, staring off into the distance.

Anbu: "Ilakiya, we need to talk. What's going on?"

Ilakiya: (sighing) "Anbu, I don't know what to say. I just need some space right now. And why are coming here to my college without informing?"

He was struck by disbelief and couldn't understand why the woman he loved was shutting him out.

Anbu's heart sank as he heard the coldness in her voice. He felt a sense of desperation creeping in as he tried to make her understand.

Anbu: "Space? What does that even mean? I don't understand what's going on. I thought things were going great between us. If you had responded to any of my messages, I wouldn't need to come like this."

Ilakiya: "I know, I'm sorry. It's just that, I've been going through some personal stuff and I need to focus on myself right now."

Anbu felt a sense of betrayal wash over him. He couldn't understand why she hadn't told him what was going on.

Anbu: "Personal stuff? Am I a stranger? Why didn't you tell me? I would have been there for you. I thought we were in this together."

Ilakiya: "Please understand. I just needed to figure things out on my own. Leave me alone."

Anbu: "I don't understand. Does this mean our relationship is over?"

Ilakiya: (tears welling up in her eyes) "Yes, I think so, Anbu. It's all meaningless."

Anbu felt his heart shatter as she spoke those words. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had lost the woman he loved. He watched her walk away, tears streaming down his face, feeling lost and alone.

He turned and walked away, a broken man. He couldn't understand why Ilakiya had shut him out, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he had lost the woman he loved forever.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 15 : The Marriage Rush

Mr. Gopi and his wife, Mrs. Vijayalaxshmi, were in shock when they received the news from Mrs. Meera. Their daughter, a college student who they had always believed to be focused and dedicated, was suddenly at the center of a scandal.

The accusation from their soon-to-be son-in-law that their daughter had been staying out with another man at a luxury hotel in Genting Highlands was too much to bear. Mr. Gopi felt a heavy ache in his chest as he and his wife rushed overnight to PJ, determined to get to the bottom of the truth.

As they drove through the night, the rain pounding against the windshield, Mr. Gopi couldn't shake off the feeling of dread in his chest. His mind kept replaying the words of the accusation, a constant loop of disbelief and confusion. Beside him, Mrs. Vijayalaxshmi sat in silence, her own thoughts consumed with the same feelings of betrayal and disappointment.

When they finally arrived in PJ, the couple wasted no time in finding their daughter. Mr. Gopi's heart was pounding as he knocked on her door, his wife standing by his side. 

The door wasn't locked. They let themselves in.

Mrs. Viiayalaxshmi hugged her daughter, tears streaming down her face. 

"I am so sorry, Mrs. Meera," Mr. Gopi said, turning to the woman who had called them with the news. "We had no idea that our daughter was capable of such behavior."

Mrs. Meera, looking fatigued and fought off drowsiness nodded tiredly, "It's alright. I understand. I know it's hard for you to accept this."

Suresh, Ilakiya's soon-to-be husband, was visibly upset. He couldn't bring himself to look at Ilakiya or her parents. "I can't believe this," he muttered, shaking his head.

"Suresh," Mr. Gopi said, "we understand that you are hurt and angry. We apologize for the pain and embarrassment our daughter has caused you."

Suresh nodded at Gopi's apology without saying a word. 

Gopi turned to Ilakiya. "Who is that boy you've been with?" he asked. "And what happened at the hotel?" He assured her, "I still believe you, but I need to clear up the accusations against you."

Ilakiya took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before she began to speak. "I know you both have questions about Anbu and what happened at the hotel," she said, looking at Suresh and Gopi. "I want to explain everything to you."

"For a while now, I've been feeling suffocated in my relationship with Suresh. His constant need to control every aspect of my life left me feeling trapped and suffocated. I found solace in Anbu's company, someone whom I met online. He listened to me and didn't try to control me. I only started spending time with him to escape this environment I was in."

She paused, looking at Suresh with a hint of sadness in her eyes. "I know it's hard to understand, but please believe me when I say that I never crossed any boundaries."

Gopi's relief was short-lived as he was still worried about the potential backlash from his family and society. He couldn't help but shed tears, overwhelmed by the weight of the situation.

Ilakiya, noticing her father's distress, stepped in. "I'll do whatever it takes to prove my innocence," she said determinedly. "Even if that means undergoing a virginity test."

"It won't be necessary," Mrs. Meera said firmly. "We trust Ilakiya and we know she's innocent. We don't need to prove anything to anyone."

She turned to Gopi and reassured him, "As of now, the only people who know about this are in this room. We can prevent further incidents like this from happening if we conduct Ilakiya's marriage as soon as possible."

Mrs. Meera then turned to Suresh, "I trust Ilakiya and you should too. You have to accept her for who she is."

Suresh nodded, understanding his mother's words. "I agree," he said. "Let's move forward and make the necessary arrangements for the marriage."

Mrs. Meera, not taking any chances, instructed Ilakiya to destroy all evidence of her relationship with Anbu immediately. Ilakiya, with a heavy heart, agreed to her mother in law's request. She deleted all of Anbu's messages and photos from her phone and blocked his contact number. Suresh, still visibly upset, collected all of the gifts Anbu had given to Ilakiya and burned them in the bin in the wee hours in the morning.

As the flames consumed the last remnants of her past relationship, Ilakiya knew that she had to put it all behind her and move on. The thought of forgetting the good times she had shared with Anbu was painful, but she knew it was necessary for the sake of her family's reputation and her future marriage. She steeled herself for the road ahead, ready to face whatever challenges came her way.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 14 : The Confrontation

Ilakiya and Anbu stood outside the Taman Bahagia LRT station, their arms wrapped tightly around each other. Ilakiya couldn't bring herself to let go, knowing that this might be the last time they would see each other.

"I don't want to say goodbye," Ilakiya whispered through tears.

"Don't be sad, my love," Anbu replied, holding her tighter. "This is just temporary. We'll be together again once we tie the knot. I promise."

Ilakiya knew that it was easier said than done. She had not yet told Anbu that she was already engaged to another man.

They shared a final kiss before reluctantly pulling away from each other. Ilakiya couldn't help but feel a heavy weight in her chest as she watched Anbu walk away to his car.

Ilakiya hailed a taxi and headed to her fiancé's house nearby the station. Her mind was still heavy with thoughts of Anbu and their time together. As the taxi pulled away, she spotted a familiar figure standing in the shadows, concealed in the darkness. It was Suresh, her fiancé. He looked furious as he glared at her. Ilakiya couldn't recognize the figure as the taxi passed.

On the way home, Ilakiya's mind was racing. Ilakiya couldn't help but feel guilty for hurting Suresh, but she knew that she couldn't let him control her happiness. She contemplated on how to break the secret to him. What she didn't know was that Suresh had already seen through her deception and uncovered the lie.

When Ilakiya arrived at home, Suresh was waiting for her, his face etched with anger and frustration.

"Ilakiya, we need to talk," Suresh said, his voice tight with emotion.

"What is it, Suresh?" Ilakiya asked, her heart sinking.

"I saw you with that guy today," Suresh spat out, his voice full of accusation. "I can't believe you would do this to me. We're engaged, Ilakiya. How could you cheat on me like that?"

Ilakiya's heart raced as she realized that Suresh had indeed seen her with Anbu. She didn't know what to say, she never thought Suresh would stalk on her like that.

"Suresh, I didn't mean to cheat on you," Ilakiya said, her voice shaking. "I was trying to find the right time to tell you about Anbu and me."

"We're still engaged and you're staying under my roof. Didn't it occur to you to discuss with me first before taking things on your own hands?" Suresh exclaimed. "I can't believe you would go see other men while still engaged to me."

Ilakiya's heart sank at his words. She knew that she couldn't marry Suresh, not when her heart belongs to Anbu.

"Suresh, I can't marry you," Ilakiya said, her voice firm. "I care about you, but I fell out of love with you. I'm sorry."

Suresh's face fell, and he looked at Ilakiya with hurt and betrayal in his eyes. "Fine," he said, his voice cold. "But know that you'll regret this decision." And with that, he stormed out of the house, leaving Ilakiya alone to contemplate the consequences of her actions.

Ilakiya knew that she had made the right decision, but she couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt for hurting Suresh. She knew that their relationship would never be the same again. She sat down on the couch, tears streaming down her face, as she thought about Anbu and the love she had for him.

Hearing all the commotion, Mrs Meera rushed out of the room. She was shocked to see Ilakiya crying. 

"Ilakiya, what's going on?" Mrs. Meera asked, her voice filled with concern as she sat down beside Ilakiya and put an arm around her. "Why are you crying? And what's this ring and note doing here?,"she asked as she shifted her sight to objects on the coffee table opposite them.

Ilakiya was shocked see the objects she had tried to hide laid bare on the table in front. She didn't answer. Her tears still flowing.

Mrs. Meera examined the note. Her expression turned serious.

"Are you seeing someone else, Ilakiya?" Mrs. Meera asked, her voice now filled with anger. "Is that why you're crying? Did you cheat on Suresh?"

Ilakiya still didn't answer, her sobs making it difficult for her to speak.

Mrs. Meera felt her anger growing. She got up from the couch and took out her phone. She dialed Mr. Gopi, Ilakiya's father and explained the commotion.

"Mr. Gopi, I don't know what to do," Mrs. Meera said, her voice shaking with emotion. "Ilakiya is crying and there's a ring and note here. I think she's seeing someone else."

"What!" Mr. Gopi exclaimed on the other end of the line. "I can't believe this. My daughter, cheating on her fiancé? I'm disappointed in her behavior."

Mrs. Meera could hear the disappointment and anger in Mr. Gopi's voice. She didn't know what to say, she's also confused about Ilakiya's behavior.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Gopi," Mrs. Meera said, her voice apologetic. "I don't know what to do. Ilakiya won't speak to me."

"I'll be there as soon as I can," Mr. Gopi said, his voice stern. "We need to talk to Ilakiya and find out what's going on."

Mrs. Meera hung up the phone and turned to Ilakiya, who was still crying on the couch. She didn't know what to do or say to make her stop crying.

Life of Ilakiya : Chapter 13 : The Momentous Night

Anbu and Ilakiya arrived at the luxurious First World hotel, and Anbu immediately went to book two separate rooms for the night stay. As he was about to finalize the booking, Ilakiya came up to him and asked, "Why waste the money on two rooms when we could share the same room? It'll be more cost-effective and we'll get to spend more time together."

Anbu was initially hesitant. But he realized that if she was open to the idea of staying in the same room, he didn't mind. He turned to Ilakiya and said, "Are you sure you're comfortable with that? I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable."

Ilakiya jokingly replied, "If we behave well, there's nothing to worry about. Just don't have any naughty ideas."

Anbu jokingly replied with a smile, "I'll try my best, but with a beautiful princess around, it will be a very hard task." Ilakiya's face turned red as she became shy.

They checked in and made their way to their room. Ilakiya couldn't help but gasp at the sight of the spacious and elegant room. Anbu had splurged and got them a room with a balcony overlooking the theme park. The room was decorated with warm colors and had a comfortable king-sized bed in the middle. Ilakiya couldn't help but feel excited to spend the night there.

As they settled in, Anbu walked up behind Ilakiya, wrapping his arms around her waist. He looked at her through the vanity mirror and said, "I'm glad you're comfortable with this. I want to make sure you're happy and have a good time." Ilakiya smiled and leaned into his embrace, feeling safe and secure in his arms.

"I am, thank you. This room is amazing, and I'm looking forward to spending the night here with you," said Ilakiya.

They spent the evening exploring the hotel and enjoying the amenities it had to offer. They had dinner at the hotel's fine-dining restaurant, and then went to the rooftop bar to enjoy the view of the KL city from the mountain at night.

As they returned to their room, Ilakiya turned to Anbu and said, "Thank you for arranging this holiday, it's been a wonderful day and I want this moment with you to last forever."

Anbu smiled, "I'm glad you're enjoying it. I want to make sure you have the best time possible."

As Ilakiya and Anbu were getting ready to go to bed, Ilakiya's phone vibrated with a message. She quickly checked it and her expression changed. Anbu noticed and asked, "What's wrong?"

Ilakiya hesitated for a moment before responding with a smile, "Oh, it's nothing. Just a message from mom." She quickly typed out a reply and winked at Anbu, trying to reassure him.

But before she could put her phone down, it vibrated again with more messages. Ilakiya's expression grew concerned as she read through them. She quickly replied to each one and then put her phone on block mode to divert away incoming calls.

Anbu was already bothered by the ring on her finger earlier, and now these back to back alerts too. He tried not to show his concern and casually said, "That ring on your finger is nice. Where did you get it?"

Ilakiya smiled and explained where she got it from, trying to change the subject and ease the tension in the air.

"Oh, it's just a ring my mother gave me. I wear it when I miss her."

Anbu smiled, "I see. It's a beautiful ring."

"What about the one I gave you?" asked Anbu, with a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

Ilakiya hesitated for a moment before responding, "Don't worry, dear. I have it safe with me," while kissing him on the forehead. She couldn't bring herself to tell him the truth, that she was already engaged to someone else.

Anbu could sense something was off, but didn't want to push the topic. He cared about Ilakiya deeply and didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable.

Ilakiya felt guilty for not being honest with Anbu from the start. She knew it would be difficult to tell him the truth, but she felt it was the right thing to do. She made a mental note to talk to him soon about her engagement and the future of their relationship.

For now, Ilakiya just wanted to snuggle with Anbu and enjoy this night together. She pushed her worries and guilt aside, wanting to make the most of their time together. With all the problems she had, this was the least she could do. She knew that anything could happen tomorrow, but for tonight she wanted to just be with Anbu and make happy memories.

As they got under the blanket and hugged each other, Ilakiya felt content. She knew that she would cherish this moment for the rest of her life. They fell asleep together, holding each other close.