Love less marriage

Clash of Priorities

The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows, lighting up the room where Divya and Vishnu sat across from each other at the breakfast table. The tension between them was palpable, a reflection of the widening chasm that had become a constant presence in their marriage.

Vishnu's voice was gentle, attempting to break the ice that seemed to thicken with each passing day. "Divya, I've been thinking about our financial situation. Maybe we could sit down and discuss our budget, plan for the future."

Divya's eyes flickered with irritation, her response curt. "Vishnu, I have my own finances to manage. You don't need to worry about that."

Vishnu's expression showed a mix of concern and frustration. "But Divya, we're a team now. It's important for us to be on the same page about our financial goals and responsibilities."

Divya's laughter held a touch of bitterness. "Vishnu, my financial goals are clear – to secure my future and maintain my independence. I don't need anyone else's input on that."

Vishnu's voice carried a hint of hurt as he spoke. "Divya, it's not about controlling your finances. It's about creating a shared vision for our lives together."

Divya's eyes met his with a challenging stare. "Vishnu, our lives may be intertwined by marriage, but that doesn't mean I'm willing to compromise my financial independence."

Vishnu's frustration was evident, his words measured but firm. "Divya, it's not about compromising. It's about finding a balance, about building a future where we support each other."

Divya's voice was laced with sarcasm. "Support each other? Vishnu, it's clear that you have your romantic notions about marriage. But in the real world, financial stability is what matters."

Vishnu's voice rose slightly, a mixture of exasperation and genuine concern. "Divya, I'm not saying we shouldn't be financially stable. But money isn't everything. Our relationship matters too."

Divya's stubbornness flared, her tone unwavering. "Vishnu, you can believe in fairy tales all you want, but I won't be swept up by your ideals. Money is power, and that's the reality I live in."

Vishnu's gaze held a combination of sadness and frustration. "Divya, you're shutting yourself off from genuine connection, from the possibility of love. Is money really worth that?"

Divya's laughter was cold, her words a final declaration of her priorities. "Love doesn't pay the bills, Vishnu. Money does. And that's all that matters to me."

The room seemed to echo with the weight of their opposing viewpoints, their differing perspectives on love, life, and priorities. As they each retreated into their thoughts, the story moved forward with a stark reminder that even the most profound love couldn't bridge the gap between two people whose values and aspirations were worlds apart.