The museum was buzzing with excitement. Prerna Agarwal, a college student, walked through its grand halls . This trip was supposed to be a fun escape, but something about this place felt like it was calling to her.
The highlight of the museum was...
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The air was thick with unspoken emotions as I prepared to leave the grand hall of Parthiva. The wedding ceremony had concluded, but my heart felt heavy with the weight of what I was leaving behind. I had to meet my father before I departed, even though he hadn’t come to the marriage hall. I knew he would feel hurt, and I didn’t want that.
As I made my way to the quiet chamber where he awaited me, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the conversation. When I entered, I found him sitting by the window, his gaze lost in the distance. The sight of him, so regal yet so vulnerable, tugged at my heartstrings.
“maharaja ,” I said softly, stepping closer.
He turned to me, his eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and sadness. “prerna ,” he replied, his voice thick with emotion. “You look beautiful . Like a true queen.”
“Thank you,” I said, forcing a smile. “I wanted to see you before I left. I know you didn’t come to the ceremony, and I understand why.”
He sighed, a deep, weary sound. “It was for the best. I didn’t want to overshadow your happiness .”
I stepped closer, taking his hand in mine. “We’re just two strangers helping each other, aren’t we? You’ve supported her , even when it was difficult.”
He nodded, a small smile breaking through his somber expression. “I completed the portrait .”
I looked at him, surprised. “You did?”
“Yes,” he said, his eyes lighting up with pride. “I drew you in your bridal attire, just as you looked today. It’s a reminder of your strength and beauty.”
My heart swelled at his words. I said , “ And once the king of Kahiya completes his part, the portrait will be finished. Then I can return to my era, where I truly belong.”
I sighed softly, trying to shake off the bittersweet feeling that clung to me. “Don’t worry, maharaja. I won’t do anything that would harm Parthiva. I promise.”
He smiled, a hint of relief washing over his features . As he left the room, I felt a wave of sadness wash over me. No family members had joined my marriage, and no one questioned it; they all understood the complexities of the royal family. I turned to Mithali, who had been my steadfast companion through it all.
“Mithali, please take care of my room,” I instructed her, my voice trembling slightly. “And after my death, you’re free. You’ve done enough for me.”
I hugged her tightly, and that’s when the tears began to flow. The reality of leaving everything I knew behind was finally hitting me.
The vidai rasam was a blur of emotions. I didn’t speak to my Husband during the journey, and he didn’t press me for conversation. but I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal. How could he have fooled me with his identity? I had never imagined he was the prince of Kahilya. Was I too soft towards him?
