Heer~THE UNWANTED DAUGHTER

~ 🄰🅄🅃🄷🄾🅁 🄿🄾🅅 ~

Heer sat in front of the mirror, slowly running the comb through her soft, tangled hair. Her eyes looked distant, lost in thoughts that refused to leave her alone, when suddenly, a knock echoed through the quiet room.

Startled slightly, she turned her head toward the door. A quick glance at the clock told her it was around breakfast time. She assumed it was one of the servants bringing her meal like always. That’s how it had been for the past two days

She stood up with a sigh, her bare feet brushing the cool floor before slipping into her slippers. As she opened the door, she expected to find a tray—but instead, the servant stood there empty-handed.

“Good morning, ma’am. You’re requested in the dining room for breakfast,” the girl said politely, then turned on her heel and walked away without another word.

Heer blinked, confused.

They called me for breakfast? Why now?

For two whole days, everyone had left her alone—no pressure, no forced interaction. They had respected her space, her silence, her grief. And now suddenly, she was being called to the dining room?

Her brows furrowed slightly as she processed it. A part of her wanted to retreat back into the quiet safety of her room, but another part—one that remembered her mother’s last wish—told her to take this step, however small it felt.

Letting out a slow breath, she pulled the comb through her hair one last time, smoothed down the loose strands, and padded across the room. After locking the door behind her, she wrapped her arms around herself and walked toward the dining room, unsure of what waited for her, but silently determined to face it.

Shaurya and Bhavika were already seated at the dining table, chatting softly with Arhaan when they heard footsteps approaching. Shaurya was the first to notice her.

Heer stood at the threshold of the dining room, looking hesitant, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the hem of her kurti. Her eyes scanned the room, uncertain if she was truly meant to be there.

A warm smile touched Shaurya’s lips as he stood slightly. “Good morning, Heer,” he greeted, his voice calm and welcoming, snapping her out of her spiraling thoughts.

“Good morning,” she replied softly, giving a small nod in return.

Bhavika turned toward her with a motherly smile. “Beta, why are you standing there? Come, take a seat,” she said, gesturing to the chair beside her.

Heer hesitated for a second before finally stepping in. She gave a quick glance around the room, as if seeking permission again, then quietly pulled out a chair and sat down, trying her best to hide how out of place she felt.

Just then, Arhaan looked toward the door and said cheerfully, “Good morning, Dadu!”

Their grandfather walked in, flanked by Rakshit and Kanishk, all dressed neatly and chatting amongst themselves. The atmosphere was casual but carried a sense of morning routine and warmth.

“Good morning to everyone,” Dadu greeted with a wide smile, but then paused slightly when his eyes landed on Heer sitting quietly at the table.

Before the silence could stretch too long, Rihaan and Priyansh also entered, adding more energy to the room.

“Arey wah!” Dadu chuckled, making his way to the head of the table. “Aaj Heer bitiya bhi hamare saath breakfast karegi? That’s wonderful. Good morning, Heer.”

Heer gave him a small smile, lowering her gaze politely. “Good morning, sir,” she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

She tried to appear composed, but inside, she was feeling awkward and overwhelmed. Everyone was being kind—gentle, even—but she couldn’t shake off the feeling that she didn’t belong. That this wasn’t her place. Not yet.