Love isn't supposed to be this complicated-at least, that's what Manya thought before Sarth reentered her life.
She's fiercely independent, and he's the infuriatingly charming guy who knows exactly how to push her buttons.
Their connection? Intens...
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I sat across from my best friend, Ruhi, in our usual spot at the local café, the familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the faint scent of pastries baking in the kitchen. The walls were adorned with vintage posters and framed pictures of old movie scenes, giving the place a cozy, nostalgic charm. We had claimed this corner table countless times before, sharing secrets, laughter, and tears over steaming cups of cappuccino and plates of warm croissants. Today, though, the air was thick with unspoken worries and tensions.
Ruhi stirred her chai latte, the cinnamon and cardamom aromas wafting up, mingling with the coffee scents. She looked the part of the confident and fierce woman I had always admired. Her dark, wavy hair was pulled back into a loose bun, and her eyes, usually sparkling with mischief, were clouded with concern. She had a knack for turning heads without even trying, her natural charisma drawing people in.
We each had our usual orders: my caramel macchiato sat in front of me, its sweet aroma providing a small comfort, while Ruhi's chai, a mix of spices and frothy milk, was her go-to for its soothing qualities. A plate of freshly baked strawberry croissants lay between us, untouched.
Ruhi took a sip of her chai, her eyes never leaving my face. "You look tired," she said softly, her voice tinged with concern.
I forced a smile, stirring my macchiato absentmindedly. "It's been a few rough days."
Her eyes narrowed. "You mean it's been rough ever since the wedding."
I looked away, my gaze falling on the bustling street outside. I didn't want to admit how right she was. "I'm trying, Ruhi. I really am."
Ruhi leaned forward. "Trying to do what, Manya? Trying to make a marriage work with a man who doesn't respect you? Who doesn't love you the way you deserve?"
My eyes filled with tears, and I blinked them away quickly. "It's not that simple."
"Then make me understand," Ruhi pressed. "Why are you doing this to yourself?"
I sighed, my thoughts drifting back to the countless arguments, the cold stares, the moments of doubt that had plagued me since the wedding. "I thought maybe... maybe I could bring out the good in him. The man I once knew."
Ruhi shook her head, frustration evident in her eyes. "Manya, you can't save someone who doesn't want to be saved. And you certainly can't sacrifice your happiness in the process."
My voice trembled. "I don't know what to do, Ruhi. I'm stuck. It's like I'm trapped in this never-ending cycle of hope and disappointment."
Ruhi reached across the table, taking my hand in hers. "You deserve so much more than this. You deserve someone who sees your worth, who loves you unconditionally. Not someone who makes you feel small and insignificant."
My heart ached at Ruhi's words, the truth of them cutting deep. "I know you're right. But leaving... it's so hard. I don't even know where to start."
Ruhi's grip tightened. "Start by believing in yourself. By realizing that you don't need him to define your worth. You're strong, Manya. Stronger than you think."
