chapter 43

YOU ARE THE RHYTHM OF MY HEART!Chapter 43 :Aadhya was still sleeping peacefully. Gathering her clothes, he gently placed them beside her, wrapped the blanket around her securely, and lifted her in his arms. With careful steps, he carried her down the stairs and into the prepared room. He placed her gently on the bed, watching her serene face for a moment.As a few strands of hair fell over her eyes, he tenderly tucked them behind her ear and pressed a soft kiss on her forehead.Then, ensuring she was comfortable, he locked the door and stepped into the washroom. Taking a fresh toothbrush, he brushed his teeth and washed his face. Just then, a knocking sound came from the door.Exiting the washroom, Nandu walked over and cracked the door open slightly, peering outside. A woman stood there, waiting.“Good morning, sir! I am Valli and I work in this coconut grove”, she introduced herself with a respectful nod.Raising an eyebrow in curiosity, Nandu silently questioned the reason for her visit.Offering a warm smile, Valli continued,“I saw the light and thought you might have returned to the room. Do you need anything? Would you like to bathe? I have already set water to boil and can bring hot water for you”. Her voice was gentle and respectful.Nandu hesitated for a moment, feeling awkward about allowing Valli into the room while Aadhya was still sleeping. He didn’t feel comfortable letting a stranger inside at that particular moment.Noticing his hesitation, Valli gently reassured him. “Sir! Don’t feel awkward. I am of your mother’s age, and I understand your concern. But believe me, I handle these things in Seetharamaiah sir’s house. You go and get ready for your bath. I will bring the hot water”, she said with a warm smile before turning away to fetch the water.Nandu stepped back into the room and checked on Aadhya, making sure she was properly covered. He knew that if she were exposed—even in front of another woman—she would surely scold him for it later.Satisfied, he pulled another blanket over her for extra warmth. Just then, he heard the door creak open and turned to see Valli entering with a bucket of hot water. She carried it toward the washroom with practiced ease.Returning to the doorway, Valli quipped,“Sir! go ahead and take your bath. I will prepare hot water for the child as well. You can lock the door”.With that, she left the room.Locking the door, Nandu picked up the fresh towel placed on the bed and entered the washroom, allowing the warm water to soothe his body and muscles. The long bath helped him relax, washing away the exhaustion of the previous night.Once he stepped out of the washroom, feeling refreshed, he noticed Aadhya stirring in her sleep. Approaching her gently, he caressed her head with a soft touch.Aadhya slowly fluttered her eyelashes before opening her eyes. As her gaze focused, she saw Nandu looking at her with warmth and tenderness, a deep fondness reflected in his eyes.Pecking her forehead gently, Nandu quipped,“Good morning, sweetheart”, his voice tender and filled with affection.Aadhya watched the joy in his eyes—something she hadn’t seen in a long time. Raising an eyebrow, she asked curiously,“What’s the matter? You look different today, almost as if you’re happier and more cheerful than usual”.Nandu smiled widely, his eyes twinkling with amusement. He sat beside her, wearing only a towel wrapped around his waist. Aadhya, still focused on their conversation, only noticed his state of undress after the words had already left her mouth. Her gaze instinctively traveled over his muscular chest and toned biceps before she quickly turned her head in embarrassment, her cheeks flushing a deep pink.Not missing her reaction, Nandu chuckled before pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. Tilting her chin up so she had no choice but to meet his gaze, he teased,“After everything we’ve shared, you’re still blushing at the sight of me half-naked? Tell me, sweetheart, how am I supposed to control myself when you turn into a blushing tomato, making me want to have you for breakfast?”.His playful tone sent a fresh wave of heat to her cheeks, and she smacked his arm, making him laugh even more.-  *KRISH*