Threads of Friendship, Bonds of Marriage

Chapter : 12

{Canyon Track}

[Manik stormed off, fury burning in his eyes after the heated argument with Nandini.]

Manik: How could she think that about me? How could I have been so wrong? She needs someone, but no, she wants to be a martyr.

[As the anger simmered, Manik's footsteps slowed. Realization hit him like a bolt of lightning.]

Manik: Damn it! What did I just do? I left her alone in the jungle. Manik, when will you learn to control your anger? You know why she said those things.

[Manik replayed their fight, every harsh word, every tear in her eyes. Regret washed over him like a tidal wave.]

Manik: This is what she always does to herself. And in my anger, I said so many things... Shit... shit... fuck!

[In a fit of frustration, Manik punched a nearby tree. Pain shot through his hand, but he ignored it. He sprinted back to find Nandini, his heart pounding with fear and guilt. His chest tightened when he saw her, sitting alone and sobbing.]

Nandini: You shouldn't have come back.

[Manik's heart shattered at her words. He approached her cautiously, as if afraid she might disappear.]

Manik: How did you know it was me?

Nandini: I know you well enough to know that you wouldn't leave a girl alone in the jungle, no matter how much you're hurting.

Manik: That's the problem, Nandini. You don't understand me. I'm not angry with you.

[Nandini kept her eyes downcast. Manik knelt, leveling himself with her, desperation evident in his gaze.]

Manik: I'm sorry, Nandini. I didn't mean to hurt you. I said those things in anger. I don't know why I can't control it.

Nandini: Because you care for others. It hurts you when someone you care about is unhappy.

[Her words struck Manik like a revelation. He struggled to find his voice.]

Manik: If you understand that, then why did you say all those things? Do you really think my care for you is fake?

[Nandini remained silent, her fingers trembling. Manik gently cupped her face, lifting her chin to meet his eyes.]

Manik: Tell me, Nandini. Why did you do this? Am I really that bad of a person?

Nandini: No, Manik. It's not like that. If it were, I wouldn't be here with you in this unfamiliar place. But you were right, I don't deserve anyone's company.

[Manik wiped her tears away, shaking his head vehemently.]

Manik: No... no... I'm sorry for saying that. It's not true. You deserve everything.

Nandini: But you also agreed with everyone else.

Manik: I was angry. Your words hurt me.

Nandini: I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you. Believe me, Manik, I could never think like that.

Manik: I believe you, Nandini. You wouldn't intentionally hurt anyone.

[Nandini was overwhelmed. Despite their rough start, despite everything, Manik cared for her and believed in her.]

Manik: You've tried so many times to make me understand, but I didn't believe you. I don't want to make that mistake again. I trust you, Nandini. And I always will.