BLOOMING LOVE FROM HATE

chapter 44

He took the file and opened it. Inside were Nithya's marksheets, along with other documents related to her. What surprised him the most was her marks, she had scored exceptionally well in both 10th grade and her intermediate exams. He realized he didn't even know what she had studied, as he had been so busy hating her. He wondered why she hadn't continued her studies. Then it struck him, his grandparents wouldn't have allowed her to. They always believed that basic education was sufficient for a woman to take care of her children and family. But Adhitya was different, he believed in women's education. He understood the pain of achieving good marks only to have one's dreams crushed, and he felt bad for Nithya, realizing how much she had sacrificed for their relationship. He had ignored her for years, unaware of the pain she had endured.

Determined, he took Nithya's marksheets and placed them in his file before closing the locker, handing the keys to his grandmother as he left for the office. Adhitya's thoughts were entirely focused on Nithya, he wanted her to be strong and independent. He knew she was strong, but he believed that education could provide the confidence she needed. He decided he would talk to Nithya about this.

That evening, Adhitya returned home late due to important work at the office. Nithya had fed Anith and put him to sleep. Thankfully, Anith had been more cooperative lately, thanks to Bro keeping him entertained. After making Anith comfortable, Nithya settled on the couch, replying to comments on her tablet. Just then, she heard the sound of the car. Adhitya entered the house, and as soon as he stepped in, Bro came running to him, wagging his tail and licking his feet. Adhitya bent down to give him a head rub and carried him to his bed. Nithya lifted her head from the tablet and looked at him. He appeared tired. He smiled at her, but she didn't return the gesture.

He took out his clothes from the bag and headed straight to the bathroom to freshen up. After a few minutes, he emerged wearing his nightwear, sat on the couch, leaned his head back, and let out a long breath. Nithya went into the kitchen and returned with two plates, placing one in front of him on the table before taking a seat on the other couch to eat. Adhitya felt happy that she waited for him to have dinner, just like in the old days. After they finished eating in silence, Nithya stood to go to her room when Adhitya called out to her.

"Nithya, one minute. I need to talk," he said. She turned back, frowning.

"Then talk. I'm sleepy," she replied, stepping forward to leave, but he stopped her.

"Wait, Nithya. I need to talk to you."

"What is there to talk about?" she asked, frustration creeping into her voice.

"Nithya, please, just listen to me," he pleaded. Nithya came to the couch and took a seat.

Adhitya began slowly, "Nithya, do you like to study?"

"What?" she asked, confused.

"Yes, Nithya. Are you interested in continuing your studies?" he asked, hope shining in his eyes.

"Why? What if I am?" she replied, questioning him back.

"Nithya, I saw your marksheets today. You scored really well. If you're interested, I will support you," he said.

Nithya smirked. "Are you kidding? Or do you people think I'm just a toy to be played with at your will? If you want me to study, I have to study. If you want me to stop, I have to stop, right?"

"No, Nithya. It's not like that. I didn't know anything about this. You know I was in London at that time. If I had been here, I would have definitely not allowed it. I know how important education is," he said, looking into her eyes, but she was staring off into the distance.

"Do you think this is a joke? What will people think if I go to college at this age? Forget the people, what will your family say?" she asked, her voice rising with anger.

"Nithya, age doesn't matter in education. Do you know that when I was studying in London, there were students over 30 and even 40 at our university? Besides, you're just 22, you don't even look like a mother of a kid. And about the people, I don't care what anyone thinks. You are my priority. If anyone says anything, I'll handle it. It's not your concern," he said.

Nithya went silent, contemplating. She had always wanted to study and earn a degree, but due to her grandparents' decisions, she had discontinued her studies. Now, with Adhitya's words, that desire to study bloomed in her heart again. Adhitya sensed her hesitation.

"Nithya, if you're worried about Anith, you don't need to. I'll take care of him while you're in college. You can join in the next academic year, and by then Anith will be a bit older," he said, placing his hands on hers.

Nithya nodded slowly. "I need time," she said.

Adhitya smiled. "Take your time, but make a good decision."

The next evening, while Nithya was teaching Anith, he perked up at the sound of the car. Nithya frowned, glancing at the clock, it was too early for Adhitya to be home. Just then, Diya came running into the house, followed by Sri and Prem. Nithya felt happy and welcomed them in. Anith beamed at seeing Diya, introducing Bro to her as they all began to play.

Meanwhile, Sri took out a bag and handed it to Nithya, filled with a saree and dresses she had bought for Anith. Nithya accepted them as usual, unaware they were from Adhitya.

After some time, Nithya and Sri prepared dinner together. At 7:30, Adhitya arrived home from the office. Everyone enjoyed a lovely evening together, having dinner as a group. When Prem, Sri, and Diya were about to leave, they invited Nithya to join them at her in-laws' house, but she declined, saying she would go with them tomorrow as Bro would be alone.

Understanding her situation, they left.

The next day was Diwali. Nithya woke up early and got ready, wearing the saree Sri had brought her. She came out of her bedroom to find Adhitya preparing coffee. She looked beautiful, stunning Adhitya. Ignoring his gaze, she went into the pooja room to perform the rituals. Adhitya handed her the coffee, and they both sipped it in silence.

Nithya woke Anith and got him ready. Adhitya took a shower and dressed, while Nithya fed Anith and filled Bro's bowls with milk, water, and dog food. After checking the kitchen, she locked the door, leaving Bro inside.

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