Of Lies & Love | weekly updates

7 | MIRA

Since I was a child, my parents have worried about the slightest things. For every sniffle, scraped knee, or toothache, I was rushed off to the hospital. I am familiar with the sterile corridors and harsh lighting better than my own bedroom. So, it's no surprise that hospitals have earned the top spot on my list of things I despise. And mind you, I don't despise many things in this world. The constant poking and prodding always grate on my nerves, leaving me irritated and restless.

Yet, here I am, confined within these detested walls for two days straight, all because Rihan refuses to let me leave. As if my reluctance to spend an iota longer in this place isn't enough, the doctor has the audacity to suggest rehabilitation. I mean, seriously? Rihan is not my legal guardian or any sort of family. Stop asking him.

The door opens, interrupting my never-ending thoughts. A nurse walks into the room with a tray of food. "Time for you to eat," she says, setting it down on the bedside table.

"I'm not hungry."

"You haven't eaten anything all day," she insists. "It's important to keep up your strength."

"I said I'm not hungry!" I snap, frustration clearly evident on my face. If she doesn't get the hint, it's her fault.

"I'll call your husband."

Minutes later, Rihan enters the room. I turn my back to him, feeling the need to hide. He saw me covered in sweat, tears and vomit, trembling like a wet kitten. The only difference was that I wasn't anywhere near cute. I have been far worse in front of my parents, but it is different with Rihan. The embarrassment makes me want to dig a hole and bury myself. Perhaps it's because he is a beacon of light while I'm mired in darkness.

"You have to eat."

"Go away." It's an automatic response to his unwanted presence.

"Mira—"

I finally look at him. "You're not my husband."

"Not yet."

His response makes me scowl.

"I know this is tough for you," he continues, unfazed, "but it's for your own good."

"I don't care," I reply, a bitter edge in my voice. "You have no right to dictate my life!"

He seems taken aback by my outburst, but he maintains a calm demeanor. "I'm sorry for overstepping. I'm just trying to look out for you."

His apology irks me. Why does he have to be nice to me? "I don't need a babysitter!"

He opens and closes his mouth before letting out a sigh. His expression tells me he's done with me.

Good. That's what you get for bringing nuisance into your life. Now, please send me back.

"What do you want?"

"You already know."

"You can leave after you finish your food, okay?"

"No."

"No?"

"Did you not say those words yesterday? We are still here."

He gives me a sheepish smile. "I promise you can leave today."

I eye him with skepticism. "You promise?"

He nods.

I grab my bag from the floor and pull out my phone, setting the camera to video mode.

"What are you doing?"

"I am recording you, in case you break your promise." I hold the phone up and press record.

He rolls his eyes but concedes eventually when I keep pointing the phone at him. "Mira can leave today if she finishes her food."