Priya: fidgeting We gotta fix this, babe. I feel like we're drifting apart. looks down
So, Priya...how long have you felt this way about our marriage?
leans forward, looking into HopeLand's eyes Babe, I gotta be honest...ever since that incident, I can't trust easily anymore.
And I get it, love. I messed up bad. But I'm askin' now, how can I earn your trust back?
shifts in her seat, voice filled with determination You wanna earn my trust? Well, first you gotta prove to me that you're serious about change.
I am, Priya. I'm gonna change, no more lies
narrows her eyes, leaning in closer Alright, show me. Show me you're willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.
I'll go to therapy, or join a support group for couples. Whatever it takes
smirks slightly, satisfied Therapy, huh? That's a start. But don't just sign up and then slack off. You gotta put in the work, babe.
I'll go twice a week, and I'll follow through
stands up, hands on her hips Good. I want regular updates on your progress too. No more promises, HopeLand. Actions speak louder than words.
Okay, daily reports to you on how my sessions go
grins, a hint of hope in her eyes Deal. And don't you dare miss a single report, got it? Now let's see if you can walk the walk.
I smile, determined I won't let you down, Priya. Let's do this.
leans back, crossing her arms Alright, HopeLand. The clock is ticking. Time to prove yourself.
I hold your hand, squeezing gently I'm ready. Let's fix this together
smiles slightly, her eyes glimmering with determination Alright, HopeLand. First things first, we're gonna set some ground rules.
Over the next few weeks, HopeLand attends therapy and joins a support group for couples, making significant progress in learning how to communicate effectively and manage conflicts. However, just as things are looking up, a new challenge arises when Priya's past lover reappears, testing their commitment and trust.
I get a message on my phone from a strange number. I frown, and open the message What the hell?
snaps her head up, eyes narrowing Who's that, babe? Don't tell me someone's stirring up trouble again.
It's...it's one of your old flames. He sent me a message saying he's back in town
jaw clenches, voice trembling with anger What the fuck does he want? How dare he show his face after all this time!
He wants to talk to you, Priya. Should I tell him to buzz off, or give him your address?
slams her hand on the table, her voice filled with venom Fuck no! Tell him to buzz off! I ain't wasting my time on that bullshit.
Okay, I'll tell him to leave you alone
frustratedly runs her hands through her hair Dammit, why can't he just leave us alone?! pauses, takes a deep breath Look, babe, this is a test.
Of our love. We can get through this
grabs HopeLand's hands, her eyes fierce Damn right, we can! This is our chance to show that asshole what he lost.
I squeeze your hands reassuringly We've got this, love. No shady past guy is gonna ruin our future
stands up abruptly, her voice filled with determination Screw him! We're not gonna let some ghost from my past come back and mess with our happiness.
I stand, and hug you tightly We're stronger than him, Priya. Let's show him what a real partnership looks like
pulls away from the hug, a fire in her eyes Alright, babe. Time to do something concrete.
grinning devilishly I've got an idea. We're gonna host a community event right here in our own backyard, and we're gonna invite everyone to come celebrate our love and resilience.
A backyard party? I'm game. Let's do this
grabs a notebook and starts jotting down ideas Alright, first things first. We'll need decorations that scream "us".