A lifelong promise

Surya is overjoyed today, his face glowing with excitement. He feels as if he has achieved something incredible, and the reason for his happiness is Vaishali. It's December 19, Vaishali's birthday, and she turned 25. Surya couldn't wait to meet her.

At 8:00 a.m., Surya picked up his phone and called Vaishali. She had just woken up, her eyes still heavy with sleep. As she opened them, the first thing she saw is her phone ringing with Surya’s name on the screen. Forgetting it was her birthday, she answered in a drowsy voice, “Ahhh... What happened? Why are you calling me this early?”

Surya chuckled and replied sarcastically, “Ohh, so I need permission to call you in the morning now? Should I write you a formal request next time, madam?”

Vaishali smirked, “Stop teasing me. Just tell me, why did you call me so early?”

Surya asked curiously, “Do you realize something?”

Vaishali, confused, began wondering if something had gone wrong. She asked innocently, “What should I realize?”

Surya smiled and said, “Vaishu, today you’ve completed 25 years of your life. Happy Birthday, Vaishu!”

Suddenly, the realization hit Vaishali. Her drowsiness disappeared, and she jumped out of bed, startled. “Oh no! It’s December 19! It’s my birthday!” she exclaimed.

Surya smiled and said, “Vaishu, I want to see you today.”

Vaishali hesitated, “But my dad’s at home; he hasn’t gone to work today.”

Surya teased, “It’s your birthday, which means you have to listen to me today!” Vaishali laughed, “Oh, I thought it’s the other way around. Alright, I’ll figure something out. Let’s meet at Beach Road?”

Surya agreed, “Mmm… sure, Vaishu.”

Vaishali was thrilled. She thought about how Surya always remembered the special days in her life. Meanwhile, Surya got ready, feeling both excited and a little nervous.

By 10:00 a.m., Vaishali arrived at the Submarine Museum on Beach Road. She wore a white saree, her hair tied traditionally, adorned with elegant accessories. She looked like an angel. Surya, already waiting on his bike, was mesmerized by her beauty.

Vaishali expected Surya to have a gift for her. Instead, he shyly said, “Vaishu, can we ride on my bike together?” She raised her eyebrows in surprise, “Alright, Surya. I’ll park my scooter here and join you.”

As they started the ride, Vaishali sat sideways on the bike, her right hand resting gently on Surya’s shoulder. Surya smiled, but he remained unusually quiet. Vaishali wondered why he was so silent on her birthday.

After a 50-minute ride, they reached Yarada Beach, a serene spot in Visakhapatnam with soft sand and clear waters. The beach was nearly empty, making it even more peaceful. They walked to a small open hut surrounded by coconut trees. The gentle breeze and mild sunlight created a magical atmosphere.

Surya hesitated but finally spoke, “Vaishu, today is your birthday… and we’ve known each other for 7 years. It’s been an amazing journey. I have something to confess.”

Vaishali looked at him intently, curious and a bit anxious.

Surya took a deep breath. “Vaishu, I love you.”

Vaishali smiled playfully, “I know, Surya.”

Surya blushed, “Please, let me say it. I’m already nervous!”

He continued, “In these 7 years, you’ve changed me completely. I was so immature when we first met. At first, I was just attracted to your looks, but you taught me how to understand my emotions. You’ve been my best teacher and the biggest blessing in my life.”

Vaishali stepped closer, her eyes soft with emotion. “Surya, you’re my responsibility. When I say I love you, it means I love all of you—your good, your flaws, your happiness, your pain. It’s my job to make you feel loved and cared for, just as you do for me.”

Surya’s heart swelled with happiness. Smiling, he pulled out a small box with two beautifully crafted rings. The rings had shiny stones and a unique design that made them look special and full of meaning.

Vaishali’s eyes widened. “Are these engagement rings?”

Surya chuckled, “No, Vaishu. These are even more special. I call them the Rings of Trust. And no, don’t laugh at the name!”

Vaishali giggled but was deeply moved. Surya took one ring and gently slid it onto her finger. “Vaishu, whenever you look at this ring, remember this day. I promise to always trust you, no matter what life brings.”

Vaishali was overwhelmed with emotion. Without saying a word, she took the second ring and gestured for Surya to show his hand. As she slid the ring onto his finger, she paused and asked, “Surya, does trust come from love, or does love come from trust?”