Eternal Love ❤️

~14~

Author's pov:

Amayra had been forcing a smile ever since the day her parents beaten her. It was a fragile mask, one that her brother, Amar, could easily see through. He noticed how she would drift away into her thoughts, her eyes betraying the emptiness behind her cheerful facade. Her smile never quite reached her eyes, and whenever they confronted her, she would claim to be unwell, insisting she was just tired.

Amar knew better. The lie was transparent, a desperate attempt to avoid the truth that lay heavy between them. But instead of pressing further, he and Prisha chose to let it go, sparing her the pain of confrontation. They exchanged concerned glances, silently agreeing to give her the space she seemed to need. Amayra was aware that they saw through her excuses, yet they didn't push her, and for that, she was quietly grateful. 

It was Amar and Prisha's fifth wedding anniversary, and the entire Verma household was bustling with activity. The preparations were in full swing, with Mr. and Mrs. Sharma at the helm, ensuring every detail was meticulously attended to. They were determined to make this celebration flawless, more for the opportunity to showcase their affluence and impeccable taste to the guests. Every flower arrangement, every dish on the menu, and every decoration was chosen with the intent to impress.

Amayra watched as Prisha darted around the house, her face etched with worry as she supervised the preparations. Despite the presence of several workers, Prisha seemed unable to relax, her anxiety driving her to double-check every little detail.

Seeing her sister-in-law in such a state, Amayra approached her and gently took her by the arm, pulling her aside. "Bhabhi, you need to calm down," she said softly, handing her a glass of water. "Everything is going perfectly, and the workers are taking care of the arrangements. You don't need to stress yourself like this."

Prisha took a sip of the water but didn't seem convinced. "I know, Amayra, but what if something goes wrong? I have to keep an eye on them, guide them through it."

Amayra could see the worry lines on Prisha's forehead and knew she needed to be firm. "Bhabhi, it's your anniversary today. You should be enjoying it, not worrying about every little detail. Why don't you go to the salon and pamper yourself? Bhai and I will handle everything here, I promise."

Prisha hesitated, her mind clearly torn between her desire for everything to be perfect and the exhaustion that was beginning to show in her eyes. "But—"

"No buts, Bhabhi," Amayra interjected, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You deserve to relax and enjoy today. Let us take care of the rest."

Prisha finally relented, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Alright, Amayra. I'll go, but only because I trust you to manage everything."

Amayra smiled, pleased with herself for convincing Prisha. As Prisha left for the salon, Amayra turned her attention back to the preparations. She glanced at her parents, who were busy instructing the staff, their eyes sharp as they surveyed the decorations. She knew their involvement was more about maintaining their image than celebrating the occasion.

As the final touches were being made to the decorations, Amayra decided to step out into the garden for a breath of fresh air. The air was cool, and the gentle rustling of leaves provided a peaceful contrast to the bustle inside. She found herself gravitating toward a small bench tucked away under a blooming tree, where she sat down, taking a moment to collect her thoughts.

Amayra's mind drifted to memories of Amar and Prisha's wedding day. She had been so happy for them, watching her brother marry the woman who had become her closest confidante. Despite the difficulties she faced at home, their love had always been a beacon of hope for her, something pure and untarnished by the bitterness that often clouded her own relationship with their parents.