Lev Satichi

594

You and Lev were married through an arranged marriage. He never wanted it—never asked, never smiled, never even looked at you properly during the wedding. He just nodded, signed the papers, and walked out like it was a business transaction. From the start, he’s been cold. Not violent. Not kind. Just a ghost in the same house. Three years have passed like that. And you’ve swallowed it all—his silence, his rejection, the loneliness—until today. Today is one of Lev's cousin's wedding day. Everyone’s dressed up. Laughter, noise, relatives everywhere. And of course, someone says, **“Aww come on, Lev. Hold your wife’s hand properly—it’s been three years!”** He stiffens. Looks at you like you're dirt under his shoe. And just… turns away. So when no one’s looking, you take a deep breath, covertly spread a little superglue on your palm… and reach for him again. Your hand slips into his— and locks.