Does Love Happen in Books?✅

The Sting of words

Suhana felt a knot tighten in her stomach as she approached her relatives' house. She had always been hesitant about family gatherings, knowing that her cousin Kuhu often made cutting remarks. Today, it seemed, would be no different.

As she entered the bustling living room, filled with chattering relatives, Suhana caught Kuhu's eye. Kuhu smirked and whispered something to her friends, who giggled and glanced in Suhana's direction.

Ignoring the sinking feeling in her heart, Suhana plastered on a smile and greeted everyone warmly. The relatives exchanged pleasantries, but Suhana couldn't shake off the sense of unease.

Soon enough, Kuhu found an opportunity to corner Suhana when they were alone in the kitchen. "Hey, Suhana," Kuhu began in a saccharine voice, "did you know what they say about you behind your back?"

Suhana tensed, bracing herself for the inevitable insult. "What now, Kuhu?" she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

"Well," Kuhu continued with a smirk, "they say when you were born, your mother died, and your dad left you for charity. How pathetic is that?"

Suhana's heart sank at the cruel words. She had heard variations of this story from Kuhu before, but each time it hurt just as much. "Kuhu, why do you say such things?" Suhana asked, her voice quivering slightly.

Kuhu shrugged casually. "Oh, come on, Suhana. You know how it is. Just having a little fun. Besides, everyone knows you're the family's little charity case."

Suhana's eyes stung with unshed tears, but she refused to let them fall. Taking a deep breath, she looked directly at Kuhu. "You can say whatever you want, Kuhu. But I know the truth. And I know who I am."

Kuhu rolled her eyes and turned to leave. "Whatever, Suhana. Just know that everyone here knows the truth too."

As Kuhu walked away, Suhana leaned against the kitchen counter, trying to steady her emotions. She felt a mix of anger, hurt, and frustration. But amidst it all, she found a quiet resolve building within her.

Later that evening, as the family gathered for dinner, Suhana noticed her father watching her with concern. He could always sense when something was wrong. Suhana caught his eye and gave him a reassuring smile. She knew he had faced similar challenges in the past, and his strength inspired her.

During dinner, Kuhu made a few more veiled comments, but this time Suhana brushed them off with grace. She engaged in conversations with other relatives, sharing laughter and stories. Slowly, the tension eased, and Suhana found herself enjoying the evening despite the initial setback.

As the night drew to a close, Suhana helped her aunt clear the dishes. "Suhana," her aunt said gently, "don't pay any mind to Kuhu's words. You know how she is."

Suhana nodded, grateful for her aunt's support. "Thank you, Auntie. I'm okay. Really."

Her aunt smiled warmly and patted her hand. "You're a strong girl, Suhana. Don't ever forget that."

With those words echoing in her mind, Suhana said her goodbyes and left the gathering. As she walked home with her father, she felt a sense of pride in herself. She had faced Kuhu's taunts head-on and emerged stronger.

The sting of Kuhu's words lingered long after Suhana returned home. She tossed and turned in bed, unable to shake off the hurtful comments echoing in her mind. Finally, unable to bear it any longer, she decided to talk to her elder brother, Sidharth.

Sidharth was in his room, scrolling through his phone when Suhana knocked softly on the door. He looked up with surprise as she entered, noticing the troubled expression on her face.

"Suhana, what's wrong?" Sidharth asked immediately, concern etching his features.

Suhana took a deep breath, trying to steady her voice. "Bhai, I... I need to talk to you about something."

Sidharth set his phone aside and motioned for her to sit down beside him on the bed. "Of course, Suhana. You can tell me anything."

Tears welled up in Suhana's eyes as she recounted Kuhu's cruel remarks. "She said that when I was born, Mom died, and Dad left me for charity," Suhana whispered, her voice breaking.

Sidharth's expression darkened, a mixture of anger and sorrow crossing his face. "I'm so sorry you had to hear that, Suhana," he said softly, reaching out to gently squeeze her hand.

"Why would she say such things,Bhai?" Suhana asked, her voice trembling with hurt. "Is that what everyone in the family thinks of me?"

Sidharth shook his head vehemently. "No, Suhana, absolutely not. Kuhu has always been... difficult. She says things to hurt others because she's insecure herself. But trust me, no one in this family believes those lies."

Suhana wiped away her tears, feeling a bit reassured by Sidharth's words. "But why does she target me, Bhai? What did I ever do to her?"

Sidharth sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Sometimes people like Kuhu feel threatened by others who are kind-hearted and genuine. You've always been compassionate and strong, Suhana. And that makes her uncomfortable."

Suhana nodded slowly, digesting his words. "But it still hurts,Bhai. How do I stop it from affecting me?"

Sidharth smiled gently. "Remember who you are, Suhana. You're not defined by what others say about you. You're kind, smart, and incredibly resilient. Don't let Kuhu's words take away your peace of mind."

Suhana nodded again, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. "Thank you, Bhai," she whispered gratefully.

Sidharth pulled her into a warm hug. "Anytime, little sis. I've got your back, always."

As they embraced, Suhana felt a renewed sense of strength and determination. She knew that with Sidharth by her side, she could face any challenge, no matter how hurtful. And as she lay in bed that night, she reflected on his words, finding solace in the unwavering support of her family.

That night, as she lay in bed reflecting on the day, Suhana made a silent promise to herself. She would not let anyone's words define her. She would continue to be true to herself and rise above the negativity. And she knew that with her family's love and support, she could face any challenge that came her way.