An arranged marriage isn't something everyone wants. It's a big chance that not everyone would take. Will this one work out, or will it not?
Can love really grow when you didn't choose who you marry?
Will they be happy together? And in the end, wil...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
ANANDITA'S POV
"Your soon-to-be husband wants to meet you," Dad announced while casually taking a bite of his meal. I was surprised since he had been indifferent about the meeting before.
"When?" I asked, putting my fork down and looking up.
"Today evening. He'll come to pick you up," Dad replied, and my heart raced at the thought of seeing him again. I couldn't forget that our wedding was just four days away. The aura of that man still terrified me.
"He wants to marry you because he wants an heir from you," Dad continued. Mom glanced at me and then back at Dad.
"He'll leave you after a year," my father added. I was shocked and confused. What did he mean? Was he marrying me just for an heir? Would he leave me after that?
My eyes locked onto my dad's face. I stood up, ready to distance myself, but my dad's voice stopped me before I could take a step.
"I already promised him, Anandita!" he said, maintaining his authoritative tone. My fingers tightened into fists, and I clenched the edge of the table.
"You promised him, not me," I retorted slowly.
"And my words carry more weight than yours," my dad shot back, his voice dripping with arrogance.
"What kind of father are you? You're marrying me off to a man who will use me and then abandon me at your doorstep!" I yelled at his face. Rarely had I ever raised my voice to my dad, but this time, I couldn't hold back my anger.
"Lower your voice, Anandita," my dad warned, his eyes narrowing. "I am doing what I believe is best for you and our family's future." As I struggled to find the right words to express my frustration and disappointment, I could feel tears welling up in my eyes.
"Screw your future," I spat out, my voice trembling with anger. My mom interjected, her voice filled with concern.
"You're sacrificing my happiness for some twisted idea of what our family's future should be."
My dad abruptly stood up, his face turning red with anger. "Watch your language, young lady," he shouted. "I will not tolerate disrespect in this house."
"Young lady, do this, Anandita, do that, Anandita, watch your mouth, Anandita, marry him," I mockingly repeated his words.
"Someday you will say, 'Anandita, die,' and I will have no choice but to oblige," I said, tears streaming down my face.
"Yes, good daughters always obey their fathers and sacrifice their own happiness," he sneered.
"But mark my words, Anandita, you will regret defying me." I stared back at him, defiance burning in my eyes.
