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Priya was 19 when she entered Rudras house.

Not as a bride.

As a burden .The first thing she learned was this love was not expected,but obedience was demanded.

Rudra did not look at her when she crossed the threshold.

He handed her to his mother like an object,his voice cold and detached.

She's your responsibility now. Amma he said .

His mother eyes swept over to priya with clear disgust.

So thin ,she said

Priya lowered her head instantly

Stand straight,her mother in law snapped at priya .

Priya obeyed,spine stiff

This is not your father's house , you will work here. From morning to night .No excuses.

Yes priya whispered .

The word was not fast enough.

The slap came suddenly.

Not hard enough to bruise,but enough to humiliate.

Speak louder,her mother in law said .

Yes Amma said priya ,voice shaking .

Rudra stood there ,watching ,silent .

His face showed nothing no anger ,no sympathy.

By noon , priyas hands were red .

Grinding spices,

Washing clothes,

Scrubbing floors.

Faster her mother in law ordered. Do you think food cooks itself .

I'm trying...

Another slap .

Trying is useless

Priya bite her lip, tasting blood and worked faster .

From the doorway,Rudra observed everything but said nothing, he stood blind to his wife's pain.

Your too soft with her , he said calmly .

Priyas breath caught.

His mother said she will learn.

Rudras eyes shifted to priya.

You will not embarrass this house, he said .

Pain teaches faster than kindness.

Her fingers trembled, but she nodded .

Yes , Rudra

The word pleased him.

Good ,Rudra said .

And walked away .

That night, priya collapsed on floor beside the bed ,too exhausted to climb onto it .

Her cheeks burned.

Her palm ached.

Her heart felt smaller.

Above her Rudra lay comfortably, untouched by the day .

You cried,he asked suddenly.

No she said .

Don't lie,he said coldly. I dislike weekness.

I won't cry again.

Silence .

Priya closed her eyes .

This house do

esn't want her love.

It wanted her submission.

It's all my mistake thought priya.

End of chapter one