Aanya adjusted the pleats of her saree for the third time, the edge refusing to sit right on her shoulder. Her mother-in-law's call had come out of nowhere that morning.

"We're coming over for lunch, beta. Just a small visit—us and your parents. Don't worry about food, we'll bring sweets!"

She had barely managed a reply before the line cut off. That was two hours ago. Now, she stood in front of the mirror, looking like a reluctant host.

In the kitchen, Arjun quietly laid out extra plates.

"They don't mean to surprise you," he said gently. "It's just how they are."

Aanya didn't respond. Her nerves were wound tight, her patience fraying.

The doorbell rang. Aanya opened the door with the kind of smile that doesn't reach the eyes.

Arjun's parents entered first, all bright eyes and warm hugs. His mother, dressed in a mustard silk saree, cupped Aanya's face and said, "You're glowing, bitiya. Married life suits you."

Aanya forced a polite laugh. Her own parents followed, slightly more awkward, carrying fruits and a box of dry sweets. The living room suddenly filled with the sound of overlapping chatter and the clink of teacups.

"So how is everything going?" her father asked, looking between the couple.

Aanya hesitated. Arjun jumped in. "It's been peaceful," he said, his tone calm. "We're settling in, taking things slowly."

Her mother smiled. "That's good. That's the right way."

Aanya stayed silent, sipping her tea too quickly and burning her tongue.

The families talked for over an hour—about traditions, upcoming festivals, and who would host what. Aanya drifted in and out of the conversation, watching Arjun from the corner of her eye. He never once looked flustered, even when his mother teased about grandchildren.

Later, as they stood side by side doing the dishes, she muttered, "You lied." He looked at her, confused. "About what?"

"You told them it's been peaceful. It's been... distant."

Arjun rinsed a plate. "Peace doesn't mean closeness, Aanya. Sometimes, it just means we aren't hurting each other."

She looked at him for a moment, then returned to her task. Maybe peace was the best they could hope for—for now.