It happened in the car. A KISS - Natural and real.
As we leaned back, catching our breath, a strange quietness filled the space between us. And in that moment, my mind traveled back to a conversation I had few days earlier with a close Friend and psychologist Sophie.
Conversation with Psychologist Friend:
After a lighter day at work. was wondering what to do with the evening. I got a message from Sophie, an ex-colleague and a psychologist friend. The message reads, "Hey Advait, would you like to catch up for a coffee or a dinner whichever suits you". After a lot of back and forth about the distance and time, we decided to meet.
As always, when we meet, the conversations went deep about life, work, personal stuff, future plans and no filters. One topic we stumbled upon was romance - whether the kind of passion we see in movies even exists in real life. Somewhere during that conversation, I ended up sharing something I hadn't really spoken much about: my craving for a kiss.
Sophie is aware that I have a partner who is suffering from severe asthma. Weather, dust, cold - any small thing can trigger her breathing issues. Even a simple kiss can't last for too long. I've seen her struggling for air, collapsing from humidity and sometimes, it's serious. Of course, it doesn't affect our romantic life much otherwise, but deep kisses are something I have to be careful about. Sometimes it feels selfish even wanting it. It's just one of those silent compromises you make with life.
While talking, I shared that urge openly and just honestly. My friend listened. Sophie asked if I ever thought of experiencing it with someone else. I said no. I don't like asking for things like that. It's awkward, and I can already imagine the reaction. Half-jokingly, I asked her if she would kiss me. She laughed and said, "You're a good friend." Exactly the point. I told her, it's not something you plan.
We agreed: such moments cannot be demanded. They must simply happen. Naturally. And that conversation, we left it at that.
A New Connection in the City:
Fast forward about few days later (approximately 20 days or so).
Roshni, a colleague about happened to be in the city. We had worked remotely before, met only once in our head office. Roshni is full of life - very energetic, passionate about work, and someone who lives every moment fully. We had worked together remotely before, and met only once in person, briefly.
This time, she had a few hours of office work, but made it a point to meet me afterwards. The second half of the day, we spent together, though I was caught up with work, the conversations kept weaving themselves between emails and calls. There was a natural ease between us - talking about careers, life choices, hobbies, movies, even personal struggles - an open, engaging exchange that didn't feel heavy or forced.
A Day That Felt Like Magic:
As evening approached, Roshni mentioned she needed to pick up some luggage from the outskirts. New to the city, navigating cabs and roads felt overwhelming to her. She asked if I could help. I said yes considering the drive would be a smooth one with roads wasn't its usual chaos. Music played from my playlist, and the conversations continued, light and effortless. She loved the music, loved the vibe. It wasn't just a drive; it felt like we were in our own little bubble.
We picked up her luggage and by then, it was close to 8 PM. Roshni suggested dinner - her treat - a way of thanking me for the help, the music, and the afternoon well spent. We found a cozy little spot. Over dinner, she said something that stayed with me - "This has been one of my best days beyond work."
The Moment That Changed Everything:
Later, Roshni asked if we could go for another short drive before she left town the next day. Somewhere during that drive, I forgot myself. Forgot the formalities of life. It felt like I was simply... on a date. A real one - effortless and real.
As we neared the exit, she leaned over, gave me a tight hug, and asked if we could just sit for a while. As we were in the conversation, next moment, Roshni leaned in and kissed me.
It wasn't hurried or it wasn't just a quick peck. It was deep, full of emotion - the kind that makes you lose track of time. Our hands found each other. My hand instinctively went to her head. For about 15 minutes, we just stayed there, lost in each other.
We didn't cross any lines. We didn't need to. The kiss was enough - beautiful.
Driving Into Silence, a confession:
The drive back to Roshni's place was wrapped in silence. Before stepping out, she turned to me and said,
"This was one of the most beautiful days of my life. The conversations, the drive, the music - Sometimes you meet people, you live a day, and it just stays with you forever. I just wanted to make it memorable."
No guilt. No gratitude.
When the Universe Listens
It wasn't planned. It wasn't anticipated.
But sometimes, the best moments in life are the ones you never see coming.
Driving back home, I thought about that conversation I had with my psychologist friend Sophie.
And now, - it had happened.
Is the Universe really listening? Or was it just a genuine wish, strong enough to find its way?
I don't know.
But this day - this moment - will stay with me, always.
"A Beautiful Kiss - A Magical Moment to Cherish"