Rudra asked her that night.

Not gently

Not patiently.

When will you give me children? He said , standing near the door, blocking her way .

Priya frozen.

Her fingers twisted in to her saree

I'm not ready yet , she whispered. Please give me sometime.

Time

The word snapped something inside him.

Time ,he repeated coldly

You were married to me to build a family,not to make excuses.

She shook her head,tears gathering

I'm scared i need some time.

His eyes hardened.

Then bring the dowry your parents owe, he said sharply.

If you can't give me children, atleast bring what was promised.

Her breath caught

They don't have it...

Go and ask he cut in.

And don't return empty handed.

Her parents house felt smaller than she remembered.

Her mother cried the moment priya spoke.

We are trying dear ,she sobbed holding her hands .

Your father goes everyday asking for help.

Her father looked tired and old .

We don't have money now , believe me we are trying.

Priya knelt before them ,heart breaking.

If I go empty handed he will be angry,she whispered.

Her father touched her head gently

A husband must be obeyed,he said .

Be patient,God will help.

No money

Only words .

Rudra knew the moment she returned.

Her hands were empty.

His silence worse than shouting.

So, he asked finally.

She lowered her head and said they are trying,they don't have it yet .

Always trying ,"then when I'm gonna get my dowry. It's already three mon

ths.

Now get inside . Such a burden he muttered.

End of part seven