Episode 5: Crossroads of Connection, path between friendship and love

Episode 5:

Things were going well between us, and one day, my mom visited from my village. I usually live with her in the city, but my friend Daniel didn't know because we had only been friends for three weeks, and I hadn't talked much about my family. While he was out for an important task, my mom arrived, and when she saw him in my room, she recognized him from our daily phone conversations.

My mom greeted Daniel, and they had a pleasant conversation until the topic of my marriage came up. My mom, thinking it was time for me to get married at 26, brought it up. I asked her not to discuss it until I was ready. I explained that I've always told her not to bring up marriage until I initiate the conversation. I shared my belief that if I find the right person, great, but I don't want to force it. I prefer taking care of each other without the need for a traditional marriage.

However, in the back of my mind, thoughts of Daniel kept appearing. I pondered what might happen between us in the future, whether it would evolve into love or remain a strong friendship. After the conversation with my mom, I accompanied Daniel to the gate when he mentioned my possible marriage. I told him honestly that if I ever decide to get married, I would accept his proposal without the need for a trial relationship. I emphasized that I don't want to marry casually or go into a relationship with the mindset of breaking up if things don't work out.

As Daniel left, he thanked me, leaving me puzzled about the reason. I smiled, wondering if he was happy that I rejected the idea of marriage my mom had brought up.

One day, out of the blue, Daniel asked me about our relationship. We've been close for two years, flirting and chatting as friends. When he questioned if I considered a future together, I was caught off guard. In that moment, I didn't have an answer. Thoughts raced in my mind, acknowledging Daniel as a good person, someone I didn't want to lose. Yet, I had reasons not to delve into it now; I planned to share them when the time felt right. Despite my uncertainty, one thing was clear – I truly didn't want to lose him.

Without revealing the details, I decided to be honest with Daniel. After much contemplation, I expressed that while I couldn't assure marriage or a relationship, I was navigating through my fears and phobias of commitments. There was another reason I hesitated to share, fearing he might see me as selfish. I anticipated a day when he might leave, ending our friendship, but until then, I hoped for happiness between us.

To my surprise, Daniel reassured me. He said he didn't want to break our friendship and was okay if it remained as friends, even without a romantic relationship. I smiled, imagining the future when I eventually reveal my inner thoughts, wondering how he would react. For now, I smiled, contemplating what lies ahead.

“Sometimes, a smile speaks volumes when words fail us, but here even my smile can’t tell many things”

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