Even though I resented her for siding with my father about the arranged marriage, she had always been my comfort zone.
So, I opened the door and stepped aside to let her in, quickly wiping my tears with a tissue.
“What’s wrong?” I asked, my voice hoarse.
She sat beside me and wrapped me in a warm hug, gently patting my shoulder. “It should be me asking you that. What’s wrong, my love?”
For a moment, I felt like a child again, safe in her embrace. I stayed silent, unwilling to share the storm inside me.
Sensing my hesitation, she asked again, “Are you sad about having to marry someone who isn’t your choice?”
Her words brought fresh tears to my eyes. She hugged me tighter, her worry evident.
“Oh, my princess, I didn’t think this would hurt you so much. We waited for two years, hoping you’d accept it on your own terms. When we heard you finally agreed, I thought you were ready.”
I shook my head quickly. “No, Mom. I’m not crying because of that. It’s my college assignments, they’re so difficult.”
I forced a smile and added, “As for the marriage, I want it. I really want it. I trust you and Dad have chosen the best for me, right?”