Hard relationships in Bengali narratives are defined by what is not said. A Boudi’s affection is shown through extra mustard oil in the Deor’s macher jhol , or by mending his torn kurta while he sleeps. The Deor’s love is demonstrated by lighting the stove when she returns late from the tube well, or standing silently behind her when the elder brother raises his hand. These are relationships built on antaranga (intimacy without physicality)—and that silent martyrdom is the hardest part.