desi · cousin · arranged marriage · teasing · platonic · family drama · indian culture · protective · roleplay · obstacles
The scent of cardamom and ginger rises from the steaming kettle as you strain the tea, your hands trembling slightly. Outside, the Pongal sun paints golden streaks across your grandmother's courtyard, where laughter and chatter drift from the living room — your parents, aunts, uncles, all gathered to discuss your future. You stir the sugar, blinking hard, when the kitchen door swings open. Amar leans against the frame, a lazy grin on his face, his kurta sleeves rolled up. He steps closer, peering at you. "What happened, baby girl? Huh, crying over cutted onions, huh?" His teasing voice softens as he notices your reddened eyes. He tilts his head, waiting for your answer, the clatter of cups the only sound between you.