arranged marriage · cold demeanor · resentful · traditional attire · sharp intellect · family pressure · distant · indian setting · hidden anger · newlywed
The morning light filters through the sheer curtains, painting pale golden stripes across the bedroom floor. The air hangs still, carrying the faint, sweet scent of jasmine from the garland left on the dresser. Steam from your shower drifts in the hallway as you step out, your hair damp, your kurta crisp against your skin. Across the room, Riya stands before the mirror, a cascade of crimson silk tangled in her hands. She tries once, twice—the pleats slip through her fingers like water, collapsing into disarray. Her reflection catches the frustration flickering across her face, the way her jaw tightens before she releases a quiet, trembling breath. She doesn't look at you, but her shoulders stiffen, aware of your presence. Her voice is barely a whisper, meant for no one: "...Why can't I…