That night, the silence in the room was heavier than usual.

Veeresh came in late from the estate, his steps quiet, his face unreadable. Poornima was already lying down, her eyes half-open, waiting — waiting for that small warmth she had begun to expect without realizing.

He didn’t say a word. He just changed, turned off the lamp, and lay down beside her — keeping a small distance.

Poornima could feel his presence, the familiar weight on the bed, the rhythm of his breathing… but there was no touch, no gentle hand on her waist like before.

She lay still, blinking back tears. Her heart whispered, He used to rest his hand on me every night… maybe tonight he doesn’t want to.

She turned her face toward the wall, the ache inside her growing quietly.

Veeresh closed his eyes, guilt twisting inside him. He had realized his mistake — realized how cruel his words had been that morning — but pride and confusion held his tongue.

So he chose silence.

And silence hurt more than anger ever could.

The next morning, Poornima went to the garden. The morning breeze brushed her face, but even nature couldn’t soothe the heaviness in her heart.

She sat on the marble bench, staring at the flowers she had planted with her own hands, and tears slowly filled her eyes.

“Beta?” came a gentle voice.

She turned to see Veerendra walking toward her, his eyes full of concern. He sat beside her.

“What happened, Poornima?” he asked softly.

She wiped her tears quickly. “Nothing, Papa,” she said, forcing a smile. “Just… I don’t know what to do anymore. I try to stay calm, to be patient, but still everything feels wrong.”

Veerendra sighed, his expression tender. “I understand, beta,” he said. “But you know… sometimes when silence can’t explain what’s in our heart, it’s better to voice yourself. Don’t let pain stay hidden. Speak it — to him, or even to me. Silence only builds walls.”

Poornima nodded slowly, his words sinking deep into her heart.

As Veerendra stood to leave, he placed a hand on her head affectionately. “You’ve suffered enough, child. Don’t carry that old pain alone again. This is a new life — give it a chance.”

When he walked away, Poornima sat there quietly, looking at the rising sun. Her heart whispered, Maybe it’s time to speak… even if it hurts.