Anushri’s POV
The next morning, I woke up with a heaviness in my chest. Amey's words from the previous night echoed in my mind, but instead of wallowing in despair, I decided to channel my emotions elsewhere. This marriage might not bring the companionship I’d hoped for, but I could still create a life for myself within these walls.
I pulled out my books, the ones I’d almost abandoned after marriage. I have 3 KTs from my college and still have to clear my year—reminders of my unfulfilled academic goals. If love wasn’t going to be the center of my life, maybe ambition could be. My resolve strengthened as I promised myself that I would clear those exams and aim for something bigger.
Balancing studies with household responsibilities wasn’t easy. Cooking, cleaning, and managing the daily chores kept me busy, and in between all of it, I would sit down with my books, immersing myself in a world of numbers and theories. Surprisingly, this routine brought a strange sense of peace. I didn’t have the energy to engage with Amey, and it seemed he didn’t mind either.
I found myself avoiding him—not out of spite, but because it hurt less this way. Every time I saw him, the words from our conversation resurfaced, reminding me of the reality I was trying to accept.
Amey’s POV
From my desk in the corner of the living room, I watched Anushri move around the house, her focus sharper than I’d ever seen before. She didn’t linger in conversations, and the warmth she used to bring to her words seemed absent. Part of me felt guilty for what I’d said, but I knew it was necessary.
Work was my escape. With deadlines looming and the possibility of a promotion on the horizon, I poured myself into my job. Love, relationships, and emotions were distractions I couldn’t afford, and I was determined to climb the corporate ladder.
Most evenings, I returned home to find Anushri quietly reading or scribbling notes in her books. Her avoidance was clear, but I didn’t address it. She wasn’t demanding my attention or asking for explanations, and that made things easier for both of us.
Anushri’s POV
Weeks passed, and I had created a rhythm for myself. Early mornings began with household chores, followed by long hours with my books. Slowly, I started to see progress in my studies. The concepts I once struggled with started making sense, and for the first time in years, I felt a glimmer of pride in myself.
My relationship with Amey had become transactional. We exchanged polite words when necessary, but otherwise, we lived like two strangers sharing the same space. It was lonely, but it was manageable.
On some nights, I couldn’t help but wonder if this was all life had to offer. But those thoughts never lingered long; I reminded myself that this was my chance to redefine my life, even if it wasn’t the life I’d imagined.
Amey’s POV
One evening, I returned home later than usual, drained from a grueling day at work. Anushri was in the kitchen, her back turned to me as she prepared dinner. The air between us felt colder than ever, but I couldn’t blame her.
I grabbed my laptop and sank into my usual spot on the couch. Work emails consumed my attention, and the thought of trying to bridge the gap with her didn’t cross my mind.
As I looked up briefly, I noticed her walking toward the study table with her books in hand. There was a determination in her eyes. It surprised me, and for a moment, I wondered if I’d underestimated her strength.
But I didn’t dwell on it for long. There were meetings to prepare for and presentations to perfect. Love and companionship weren’t part of my plan, and I was fine with that. At least, that’s what I told myself.
