Yaar seriously tum log atleast meri mahnt to dekho ek like and ek comment me kuch nhi jaata

Kitna sa Target h mera first chp pr 100 plus views aae h and vote only 11

Or comment 0

Look I am not being rude to you but it's a request to you guys please thoda taras kha lo mujh pr.....

Tell me aapko story kaisi lagi i know it's just 3 chapters but still they are closed to me they are my hard work

Target for next chapter 10 votes and 10 + comments

Enjoy...... ❤️

And don't forget to follow me on insta

@shyleewrts on Instagram

Shyleewattpadwrts.   On YouTube

.....................

The night had fallen into a deep, haunting silence.

The grand noise of the palace was long left behind... replaced by an eerie stillness that stretched endlessly around them. The path ahead was dimly lit by flickering torches carried by soldiers, their flames dancing weakly against the cold wind.

All around-nothing.

No voices.

No celebration.

Only the distant echo of hooves striking against the earth.

Sultan Rafiq bin Khalid rode ahead, his posture straight, unwavering-like a man carved out of power and purpose. Beside him was Haider, ever watchful, his eyes scanning the darkness as the line of armed soldiers followed closely behind them.

A few selected sevikas walked near the palki, their heads lowered, their presence silent yet necessary.

And in the center-

Moved the palki.

Carrying a bride... who felt more like a prisoner of fate.

Inside...

Ruhani sat utterly still.

Her back straight, her body unmoving... like a lifeless doll dressed in bridal silk.

Only her hands showed life.

They clutched the small murti of Kanha ji tightly-almost desperately-like it was the last piece of her broken world she could still hold onto.

Her eyes were swollen, red... drained of tears.

But not in pain.

Slowly...

Her gaze dropped to the murti.

Her fingers traced it faintly, as if searching for comfort in something divine... something that wouldn't leave her.

Her lips trembled.

And then-

In a fragile whisper that felt like it carried her entire shattered heart-

Ruhani pov.

"Kanha... yeh sab kya ho gaya humare saath...?"

Her voice broke mid-sentence.

A silence followed...

Before her pain poured out again, softer... deeper.

"Us ek mulaqat ne... humari zindagi ko kahan se kahan laakar khada kar diya..."

Her breath hitched.

Her grip tightened painfully around the murti.

"Kaash..." her voice trembled, barely holding itself together,

"kaash hum us din mahal se bahar na jaate..."

Her eyes shut tightly now, as if trying to escape the memories that refused to leave.

"Na hum unse takrate... na woh hume dekhte..."

A tear slipped out... then another...

Falling silently over her hands.

"Toh shayad... aaj hum apni Maa ke paas hote..."

Her shoulders trembled slightly.

"Na yeh dard hota... na yeh judai..."

Her voice dropped into a broken whisper-

"Aur na hi... hum kisi aur ki zindagi banne ko majboor hote..."

Silence.

Deep.

Suffocating.

Her forehead slowly lowered, almost resting against her own trembling hands.

"Kanha... agar yeh hi likha tha... toh phir itna dard kyun diya...?"

The palki kept moving.

The world kept going.

FLASHBACK

-

Ruhani was lying in the far corner of her chamber-her favorite place, hidden from direct sight. A long, velvet couch rested near the carved window, where soft sunlight filtered through delicate curtains, painting golden patterns across the floor.

She lay on her stomach, her feet lightly swaying in the air... completely lost in a book held close before her.

For once-

There was no fear.

No burden.

Just peace.

A faint smile played on her lips as her eyes moved quickly across the pages, as if the world inside the book mattered more than the one outside.

Then-

A soft sound broke the stillness.

The gentle chhan-chhan of anklets.

Ruhani froze.

Her eyes widened slightly in realization.

Without wasting a second, she quickly slid the book under the pillow, pressing it down carefully as she straightened herself, trying to look composed-as if she had been doing nothing at all.

Her heart beat just a little faster.

Then came a voice-

"Rajkumari..."

The moment she heard it-

All the tension melted away.

A small, relieved smile appeared on her lips.

She relaxed instantly.

"Hum yahan hain, Kaashi..."

she replied softly, her tone light and familiar.

Within seconds, Kaashi entered-her steps quick, almost rushed-as she made her way toward Ruhani's little corner.

The moment she reached her, she placed her hands on her waist, slightly out of breath, her expression a mix of concern and mild complaint.

"Rajkumari... aap yahan baithi hain... aur wahan aapki Maasa aapko poore mahal mein dhoond rahi hain..."

Her voice carried a soft urgency, yet there was affection hidden in it-like someone who had done this many times before.

Ruhani looked at her...

That same soft smile still lingering on her lips.

Kaashi folded her arms, giving Ruhani a knowing look, her brows slightly raised.

"Aap phir se pustake padhne lagi thi na..." she said, a hint of complaint in her tone,

"kitni baar samjhaya hai aapko... agar mahal mein kisi ne aapko yeh pustake padhte dekh liya na... to aapki khair nahi..."

Ruhani listened... but instead of reacting seriously, she casually turned and lay back on the couch again, resting on her side, her gaze still fixed on Kaashi.

A faint, playful smile touched her lips.

"Achha... aur kaun humein saza dega...?"

she asked lightly.

Then, counting on her fingers, she tilted her head slightly.

"Badi Maasa...?"

Her eyes met Kaashi's, mischief flickering softly.

"Abhiraj Bhaisa...?"

A pause.

"Ya Maasa...?

She let out a soft breath, her tone calm, almost teasing now.

"Jahan tak humein gyaat hai... in sabko to humare iss raaz ke baare mein bhali-bhaanti gyat hai..."

Kaashi didn't smile.

Instead, she gave her an unimpressed look, clearly not entertained by Ruhani's casual attitude.

"Unmein se kisi ko na sahi..." she said firmly,

"par aapki woh jallad do behne... jo iss samay apne nanihaal mein baithi hain... apni putna Maasa ke saath..."

Her voice lowered slightly, serious now.

"Unhe pata chal gaya na... to seedha Maharaj tak baat pahunch jayegi... phir mat kahiye ga ki aapki daashi ne pehle se btaya nahi..."

Ruhani was still relaxed... her expression unchanged.

But then-

One word settled in.

Daashi.

Her smile faded.

Her eyes slowly lifted toward Kaashi again.

This time-

There was no playfulness.

Only a quiet anger.

She sat up slightly, her gaze sharpening.

"Kaashi..." her voice was low,

controlled... but carried a clear warning,

"humne tumhe kitni baar kaha hai... humein yeh shabd bilkul pasand nahi..."

Her brows furrowed faintly.

"Tum humari daashi nahi ho..."

A pause.

Her voice softened just a little... but the emotion remained strong.

"Tum humari apni ho... samjhi tum...?"

The room fell into a brief silence.

Kaashi looked at her-

And for a moment, the usual teasing disappeared.

Because she knew...

Ruhani wasn't just correcting her.

She was protecting something far deeper than a word.

Kaashi lowered her gaze for a moment... her expression softening, yet something resolute flickered within her eyes.

She folded her hands respectfully.

"Kshama kijiye, Rajkumari..." her voice was calm, humble... yet steady,

"parantu jis prakar kichad mein kamal khil sakta hai... par koi usi kichad ko apne shareer se nahi lagaata... usi prakar..."

She paused briefly, choosing her words carefully.

"Aap chahe humse kitna bhi sneha kar lein... chahe humein apna samjhein... par satya to yahi rahega ki hum aapki daashi hain... aur aap Rajkumari."

Her words were not harsh-

But they carried a truth shaped by years of understanding her place.

Ruhani's expression tightened.

There was something in those words that hurt more than open cruelty ever could.

She slowly stood up from the couch, her movements no longer light or playful.

Her eyes locked onto Kaashi.

"Satya...?" she repeated softly.

A faint, bitter smile touched her lips.

"Yeh satya tumhe kisne bataya,

Kaashi...?"

She took a step closer.

"Yeh mahal...? Yeh reet... ya woh log jo apni suvidha ke hisaab se rishton ke naam badalte rehte hain...?"

Her voice was no longer angry-

It was wounded.

Deeply.

"Agar janm se sab kuch tay hota... to shayad hum bhi kabhi..."

She stopped.

Her words caught in her throat.

For a brief second, her composure slipped... revealing something she always hid.

Then she looked back at Kaashi, her gaze softer now... yet filled with an unspoken pain.

"Tumhe lagta hai tum sirf daashi ho..."

she said quietly,

"par hum jaante hain... ki is mahal mein sabse zyada apna agar koi hai... to woh tum ho."

Silence settled between them.

Heavy.

Not uncomfortable-

But real.

Because somewhere between status and truth...

both of them stood on opposite sides of a line neither had drawn... yet both were bound by.

A heavy silence lingered between them... the weight of unspoken truths still hanging in the air.

Kaashi noticed it.

And just as quickly-she decided to break it.

Clapping her hands lightly, forcing a change in tone, she stepped closer to Ruhani with a small, hurried smile.

"Achha chaliye... yeh sab yahin chhod dijiye..." she said, almost playfully now,

"aur chaliye... aapko Choti Rani Maa bula rahi hain..."

The moment those words left her lips-

Ruhani's expression changed.

All the depth... the pain... the quiet anger-

Vanished.

Replaced instantly by worry.

Her eyes widened.

"Oh no..." she whispered under her breath, panic slipping into her voice.

She quickly stood up from the couch, her earlier calm completely gone.

"Kaashi... woh phir se naraaz ho jayengi humse..."

Her hands instinctively moved to adjust her dupatta, as if trying to fix herself before facing someone she clearly feared.

"Humne pehle hi unki baat nahi maani thi... agar ab bhi der ho gayi to..."

She didn't even finish the sentence.

Her thoughts had already rushed ahead of her.

Turning toward the door, she grabbed Kaashi's hand lightly-this time not as a princess, but like a worried girl seeking support.

"Chaliye... jaldi chaliye..."

Her steps were quick now... almost hurried.

The same girl who, moments ago, was arguing about truth and status-

Was now anxious... careful...

Afraid of someone else's displeasure.

And Kaashi...

Just followed her quietly.

Because she knew-

In this palace, Ruhani's biggest battles were never loud.

Ruhani almost ran through the long corridors of the palace-her footsteps quick, her breath slightly uneven as her mind filled with worry.

The sound of her anklets echoed softly against the marble floors as she turned the familiar corners, her dupatta slipping slightly as she hurriedly adjusted it mid-run.

"Bas ab daant padni baaki hai..."

she muttered under her breath.

Reaching the chamber-

She slowed down.

Carefully.

Quietly.

Peeking inside, she slipped in without making a sound, almost hiding behind one of the carved pillars near the entrance.

Inside, the room was calm... but not silent.

A woman stood near the center, her back slightly turned, muttering under her breath-loud enough to be heard.

Unaware...

That the very person she was complaining about was already there.

"Hey Kanha... yeh mhari chori bhi na..."

the woman sighed, shaking her head lightly,

"pata nahi aaj kal kahan rehti hai... koi khabar hi nahi rehti..."

Ruhani bit her lip, trying not to smile.

Her eyes sparkled for a moment-mischief returning just a little.

Slowly... silently...

She tiptoed closer.

And then-

"Boo!"

She suddenly jumped right behind her.

The woman gasped, jumping in her place, her hand flying straight to her chest in shock.

"Ruhani!"

Ruhani couldn't help it-she laughed softly, her earlier worry melting into playful ease.

"Kya Maasa..."

she said, tilting her head slightly, her tone light and teasing,

"kabhi to khud ko aaraam de dijiye... itni chinta sehat ke liye achhi nahi hoti..."

Her smile lingered... soft, warm.

As if she hadn't just been running in fear a moment ago.

Because with her Maasa-

Somehow...

She still felt like herself.

Vidya turned toward her fully now, her expression a mix of relief... and worry that quickly turned into mild scolding.

She held Ruhani's arm gently, as if making sure she was really there.

"Chori... thare se kitni baar kaha hai humne..."

her voice carried that familiar Rajvadi sternness, yet beneath it was pure concern,

"is prakar yun idhar-udhar na jaya karo..."

Her brows furrowed slightly as she looked at her from head to toe.

"Kisi ki nazar aap par pad gayi to anarth ho jaayega..."

Her grip tightened just a little.

"Aur Maharaj ko to vaise bhi yeh bilkul pasand nahi hai..."

The room fell quiet for a moment.

Ruhani's playful smile faded just slightly.

She lowered her gaze... but not completely.

Because somewhere-

She already knew this.

Knew the rules.

Knew the fear behind them.

Yet still-

She stepped closer to Vidya, her tone softening.

"Maasa..." she said gently, almost trying to ease her worry,

"hum bas... thodi der ke liye hi bahar gaye the..."

She paused, then added with a faint, almost teasing softness-

"Aur waise bhi... mahal ki deewaron ke beech hi to the... kahin door thodi gaye the..."

But Vidya didn't smile.

Her eyes remained serious.

Because for her-

Even those walls were not safe enough.

She lifted her hand, adjusting Ruhani's dupatta properly over her head, her touch careful... protective.

"Aap samajh kyun nahi rahi hain, putri..." her voice lowered now, heavier with unspoken fear,

"yeh mahal utna surakshit nahi hai jitna aap sochti hain..."

A pause.

"Yahan har nazar... apni nahi hoti."

Ruhani looked at her.

This time-

More quietly.

Because in her mother's words...

There was something more than just concern.

There was a warning.

One she had heard many times before-

But never truly understood.

Until fate decided...

to make her understand everything.

Ruhani listened... but only for a moment.

Because the weight of Vidya's words-though filled with concern-felt like chains to her restless heart.

She exhaled softly, then suddenly changed her tone.

"Achha Maasa, yeh sab chhodiye..." she said lightly, almost brushing it off,

"humein bahut kaam hai... hum ja rahe hain... raatri mein yahin milenge aapse..."

Before Vidya could respond-

Before she could stop her-

Ruhani turned.

And walked away.

Quickly.

Almost escaping.

Vidya's voice lingered behind her... unspoken... unheard.

-

Ruhani moved swiftly through the corridors, her steps light yet hurried. The palace walls that once felt like home now felt suffocating... and she wanted out.

Even if just for a little while.

Without stopping anywhere-

She reached her chamber.

Pushing the door open, she entered quickly.

Inside, Kaashi was already there, sitting near the couch, clearly waiting for her.

The moment she saw Ruhani-

She stood up.

But before she could even speak-

"Kaashi... jaldi kariye..." Ruhani said in a hushed but urgent tone, moving toward her,

"humein talab ke kinare jaana hai..."

Kaashi frowned slightly, confused.

"Kyun...?"

Ruhani didn't stop.

She moved around the room, picking up her dupatta, adjusting it hurriedly.

"Kyun kya... humein jaana hai to jaana hai... bas."

Her voice carried a quiet determination.

A stubbornness Kaashi knew very well.

Kaashi sighed softly.

"Rajkumari... yeh theek nahi hai-"

"Kaashi..." Ruhani stopped, turning to look at her,

her eyes firm now, almost pleading beneath the stubbornness,

"chaliye na..."

That was enough.

It always was.

Kaashi shook her head slightly... but a small, helpless smile appeared.

Because no matter how much she tried-

She could never refuse her.

"Theek hai..." she muttered.

-

Moments later-

The two of them moved quietly through the palace.

Not from the main corridors.

But from the hidden paths.

The back passages.

The ones only a few knew about.

Their footsteps were careful... their breaths controlled... as they avoided guards and watchful eyes.

Finally-

They reached the rear side of the palace.

The quieter side.

Where the grand walls met the open land beyond.

With one last glance around-

They slipped out.

Hidden by the shadows of the night.

Leaving behind-

The rules.

The walls.

The restrictions.

And stepping into a moment of freedom...

They didn't know-

Would change everything.

The night air softened as they moved further away from the palace... the silence now no longer heavy, but peaceful.

And within a short while-

They reached the talab.

But they were not alone.

The entire place was beautifully adorned-delicate flowers spread all around the edges of the water, floating diyas glowing softly on the surface, their light dancing with the ripples. A few sevikas stood nearby, their faces lit with quiet excitement... as if they had been waiting.

The moment Ruhani stepped forward-

All eyes turned to her.

And she smiled.

A soft, genuine smile... one that hadn't been seen on her face in a long time.

Then-

She turned toward Kaashi.

Who stood beside her, completely confused, her brows slightly furrowed as she looked around at everything-the decorations, the people, the unexpected gathering.

Before she could ask anything-

Ruhani gently held her hand.

And pulled her forward.

Right into the center.

Among everyone.

Kaashi looked at her, still confused... still unaware.

Ruhani's smile widened just a little.

Then softly-

"Kaashi..."

A pause.

Her voice turned warmer... filled with affection.

"Humari priya sakhi..."

Kaashi blinked.

And before she could process anything-

"Janamdin ki bahut bahut shubhkaamnayein..."

For a second-

Everything stood still.

Then suddenly-

One by one, the sevikas stepped forward.

Smiling.

"Janamdin mubarak ho, Kaashi..."

"Ishwar aapko sukhi rakhein..."

"Bahut saari badhaaiyaan..."

Voices overlapped... gentle, warm... filled with sincerity.

Kaashi stood frozen.

Her eyes moving from one face to another... then back to Ruhani.

Her lips trembled.

And suddenly-

Tears filled her eyes.

Spilling over before she could stop them.

Ruhani noticed instantly.

Her smile softened, a hint of concern appearing.

She stepped closer.

"Kya hua, Kaashi...?" she asked gently,

"aapko humara uphaar pasand nahi aaya...?"

Kaashi looked at her-

Through tear-filled eyes.

And in the very next moment-

She stepped forward and pulled Ruhani into a tight embrace.

Ruhani froze in surprise for a second.

The sevikas around them gasped softly... equally surprised.

Kaashi held her tightly-

As if words were not enough.

"Ruhani..." her voice broke against her shoulder.

She pulled back slightly, her hands still holding Ruhani's arms, her eyes shining with tears.

"Ishwar kare... humare jeevan ki saari khushiyaan... aapko mil jaayein..."

Her voice trembled with emotion.

"Aapko woh sab mile... jo shayad hum kabhi sapne mein bhi na soch sakein..."

Ruhani looked at her-

Quietly.

Deeply.

And for a moment...

Her smile faded into something softer.

Because somewhere-

In Kaashi's wish...

There was a truth neither of them spoke.

That some people...

Are born to give happiness-

But never truly meant to keep it.

Soon, the entire atmosphere shifted.

The quiet stillness of the night turned into a soft celebration-filled with laughter, light chatter, and the gentle glow of diyas reflecting over the talab.

The sevikas gathered around, some clapping, some smiling, some already humming a tune under their breath.

It felt... alive.

Ruhani stood there, watching it all-her eyes glowing with a happiness that came only when she saw others smile.

Then she turned slightly and called out-

"Sital..."

From the side, Sital immediately stepped forward, her face lighting up with respect and warmth.

"Ji, Rajkumari..."

She approached carefully, holding a beautifully arranged thali in her hands, covered with a soft cloth. With a gentle bow, she placed it into Ruhani's hands.

Ruhani took it with care.

Then slowly-

She lifted the cloth.

Kaashi leaned forward slightly... her curiosity turning into surprise the very next second.

"Suji ka halwa...!"

Her eyes widened, almost childlike.

Ruhani smiled-soft, proud.

"Woh bhi... humare haathon se bana hua..." she said gently,

"sirf aur sirf... humari priya sakhi ke liye."

Kaashi looked at her-

Speechless.

Overwhelmed.

Before she could say anything, Ruhani took a small portion with her fingers and held it near Kaashi.

"Muh kholo..." she said playfully.

Kaashi laughed softly through her tears and did as told.

Ruhani fed her the halwa with her own hands.

And in that moment-

There was no princess.

No daasi.

Just two souls... bound by something pure.

-

Soon, the celebration grew livelier.

Someone started clapping in rhythm.

Another joined.

And then-

Music filled the air.

Soft at first... then growing.

The sevikas formed a loose circle, encouraging Kaashi to step forward.

Ruhani grabbed her hand-

Pulling her right into the center.

"Chaliye... aaj koi mana nahi karega..."

she said with a teasing smile.

Kaashi shook her head, laughing nervously.

"Rajkumari... humse nahi hoga-"

But before she could finish-

Ruhani had already started.

Her movements were graceful, fluid-her lehenga swaying softly with every step. She spun lightly, her hands lifting in delicate arcs, wrists turning with elegance as her anklets chimed in perfect rhythm.

She took a step forward-

Then back-

Her eyes sparkling as she looked at Kaashi, silently urging her to join.

Slowly... hesitantly...

Kaashi followed.

Her steps were not as refined... but they were full of joy.

Ruhani guided her gently-holding her hand, spinning her once, laughing softly as Kaashi lost balance for a second.

The sevikas around them clapped louder now, cheering them on.

Ruhani twirled again, this time faster-her dupatta swirling around her like a wave, her laughter echoing into the night.

Kaashi mirrored her, a little clumsy, a little shy-but completely lost in the moment.

Soon-

Both of them were dancing freely.

No rules.

No fear.

Just happiness.

Their steps matched and mismatched-sometimes perfectly in sync, sometimes breaking into laughter when they weren't.

Ruhani lifted her arms gracefully, turning in a slow circle... while Kaashi followed with a simpler step, clapping along, her smile never fading.

The diyas flickered.

The water shimmered.

And under the open sky-

For that one moment-

Ruhani wasn't a princess bound by fate.

She was just a girl...

Living a memory-

That would soon become the most painful one to remember.

The night grew deeper... yet the laughter didn't fade.

The circle of sevikas clapped in rhythm, their voices blending with the soft sound of anklets and the gentle splash of water nearby. The diyas flickered like tiny stars fallen onto the surface of the talab.

At the center-

Ruhani twirled.

Graceful. Effortless.

Her lehenga flowed with every movement, her hair slightly loosening as she spun, her laughter echoing softly in the night. There was something untouched about her in that moment... something free.

Kaashi laughed beside her, trying to match her steps, sometimes stumbling, sometimes getting it right-but always smiling.

And Ruhani-

She watched her with so much warmth... so much love... that it felt pure.

Unfiltered.

Real.

-

But not everyone there... was part of the celebration.

Hidden beyond the soft glow of diyas-

Behind the shadows of thick bushes-

Someone stood.

Still.

Silent.

Unseen.

His face was partially concealed beneath a dark cloth, blending him into the night... but his eyes-

They were fixed.

Unblinking.

On her.

As if the world around him had disappeared.

As if the sound, the people, the laughter-none of it mattered.

Only her.

He watched everything.

From the moment she arrived...

to the way she smiled...

to the way she held Kaashi's hand...

to the way she danced without fear.

Her carefree laughter.

Her innocence.

Her presence.

It was as if... something had stilled inside him.

Like a breath he didn't realize he was holding-

Had been taken away.

-

Back at the center-

Ruhani slowed.

Just for a moment.

Her steps faltered slightly.

A strange feeling crept in.

Subtle.

But sharp.

As if someone was watching.

Her smile faded just a little.

Her eyes moved instinctively-scanning around... past the circle... toward the darker edge of the talab.

And then-

She saw it.

A faint movement.

Behind the bushes.

Her breath hitched.

Her eyes widened slightly.

She stilled.

The world around her blurred for a second.

She couldn't see his face-

It was hidden beneath the cloth.

But his eyes-

They were there.

Dark.

Deep.

Locked onto her.

Not moving.

Not looking away.

A strange chill ran through her.

Something about that gaze-

It wasn't normal.

It wasn't safe.

Her fingers tightened slightly at her side.

Her heart began to beat faster.

For a moment-

Everything else faded.

The laughter.

The music.

The people.

All of it disappeared.

Leaving only-

That gaze.

Watching her.

Silently.

Intensely.

As if he had already seen too much.

Then suddenly-

She moved.

Quick. Determined.

Leaving the circle behind, ignoring Kaashi's confused call, she walked straight toward the bushes... her heartbeat loud in her ears, yet her steps steady.

The closer she got-

The stronger that gaze felt.

Watching her.

Waiting.

She stopped right in front of him.

Her chin lifted slightly, anger flashing in her eyes-masking the unease beneath.

"Yeh kaisa nich kaam kar rahe hain aap...?" her voice was sharp, controlled,

"is tarah striyon ko chhupkar dekhna...?"

A step closer.

"Kitne nirlajj hain aap..."

But-

No reaction.

The man didn't move.

Didn't speak.

Didn't even flinch.

He just...

Looked at her.

As if her words hadn't reached him at all.

As if he was somewhere else-

Lost.

In her.

Ruhani frowned, a flicker of confusion crossing her face.

Her brows furrowed slightly.

And without thinking-

She lifted her hand.

Reaching forward-

And in one swift motion-

Pulled the cloth away from his face.

Time paused.

For a moment

The world fell silent.

The man before her

Was not ordinary.

Sharp, well-defined features carved like stone... a strong jawline, slightly shadowed with stubble that added to his rugged presence. His skin held a warm tone, kissed by the desert sun.

But it was his eyes-

Deep. Intense. Dark.

Holding something unreadable... something dangerous.

Something that didn't look away.

His gaze didn't falter even for a second after being revealed.

If anything

It deepened.

Locked onto her even more.

Ruhani's breath caught.

Her eyes lingered on his face longer than she intended.

Something about him-

It was... unsettling.

Yet

Strangely arresting.

Her cheeks flushed faintly, a soft red spreading across them without her realizing.

For a brief moment-

She forgot what she had come to say.

Forgot her anger.

Forgot everything.

Because the way he looked at her-

It wasn't just a glance.

It felt like he was seeing through her.

And then

Reality snapped back.

Ruhani blinked.

Her expression hardened again as she tried to pull her hand back... the same hand that was still lifted between them.

But before she could-

His hand moved.

Suddenly.

Firmly.

He caught her wrist.

The grip wasn't rough-

But it was strong.

Unyielding.

Ruhani gasped softly, her eyes widening in shock as she looked at him.

His fingers wrapped around her wrist like a silent claim.

And still-

He didn't speak.

Just held her there.

Looking at her-

As if letting go...

Was never his intention.

And then

The memory shattered-

Like a fragile dream breaking apart.

Ruhani's eyes fluttered open as a voice reached her from outside the palki.

"Sultana..."

The soft call pulled her back into the present.

For a moment, she didn't move.

As if her heart was still stuck in that past moment... beneath the open sky, near the talab.

Then slowly-

Reality settled in.

Her grip tightened around the murti in her hands before she quickly wiped away the tears from her cheeks, not wanting anyone to see.

Composing herself... hiding everything.

Her lips parted slightly.

"Jee..."

she replied in a soft, low voice-barely above a whisper, yet clear enough to be heard.

Outside, the sevika bowed her head slightly, her voice respectful, laced with Urdu grace-

"Adaab, Sultana..."

A brief pause.

"Huzoor ka hukm hai ke aaj ki raat hum yahin qayam farmaayenge... aap tashreef le aaiye."

Ruhani's fingers trembled faintly at the word hukm.

Sultan.

Without another word-

She slowly lifted the curtain of the palki.

Just a little.

And looked outside.

Darkness.

Deep. Endless. Unfamiliar.

Her breath stilled.

They were no longer near any palace... no familiar path... no signs of civilization.

Only a dense jungle surrounded them from all sides.

Tall trees stood like silent shadows, their branches tangled together, blocking even the faint moonlight. The wind moved through them with a hollow sound, making the leaves rustle in a way that felt... unsettling.

The torches held by the soldiers flickered weakly against the darkness, their light barely enough to hold back the heavy shadows creeping closer.

It felt

Unsafe.

Unknown.

Alive in a way that made her chest tighten.

The night had grown darker... deeper...

And far more fearful.

Ruhani's eyes moved slowly across the surroundings, taking it all in.

Her fingers instinctively tightened around the murti again.

Where have they brought me...?

A faint unease settled in her chest.

Because this place-

It didn't feel like a stop.

It felt like the beginning of something she wasn't ready to face.

And somewhere-

Beyond the dim light of the torches-

Stood a presence she didn't need to see...

To feel.

"Sultana..."

The voice came again-soft, but firmer this time-pulling Ruhani completely back into the present.

"Bahar tashreef le aaiye..."

Ruhani blinked slowly.

As if reminding herself where she was.

Who she was now.

Tightening her hold around the murti, she carefully adjusted her dupatta over her head... and then, with hesitant movements, stepped toward the edge of the palki.

The cold night air brushed against her face the moment she stepped out.

She placed her foot down-

And stood up.

But the very next second-

A sharp discomfort shot through her legs.

Her body had gone numb from sitting so long.

Her balance faltered.

She stumbled slightly on her feet.

"Sultana...!" one of the girls gasped softly, stepping forward in concern.

Before Ruhani could fall

A sevika quickly held her by the arm, steadying her carefully.

Ruhani paused... taking a slow breath, trying to regain control.

The world felt a little unsteady.

The forest around her seemed darker from outside the palki... more real... more overwhelming.

Another girl stepped closer, her gaze falling upon the small murti in Ruhani's hands.

Her brows furrowed slightly-confused.

She didn't understand what it was.

With gentle hesitation, she spoke

"Sultana... agar ijazat ho to... yeh humein de dijiye..."

Her tone was respectful... but uncertain.

Ruhani's eyes lowered instinctively to the murti.

Her fingers tightened around it.

Then she looked back at the girl.

A softness crossed her face-

But along with it...

Firmness.

"Kshama kijiye..." she said quietly, her voice calm yet unwavering,

"parantu... yeh hum aapko nahi de sakte..."

She held it closer to herself.

Almost protectively.

As if it wasn't just an object-

But something far more important.

The girl immediately lowered her gaze.

"Ji, Sultana..."

No further questions.

Around them, the soldiers had already begun setting up camp.

Torches were being fixed into the ground, their flames rising higher, casting long shadows across the trees. The sound of metal, footsteps, and distant commands echoed faintly through the jungle.

Yet

Despite all the movement

The darkness still felt dominant.

Heavy.

Watching.

And somewhere within that darkness-

A presence lingered.

Unseen.

Unspoken.

But not unfelt.

Ruhani stood there for a moment... steady now, yet not at ease.

Her eyes slowly moved around-

Taking in everything.

Rows of soldiers.

Armed.

Alert.

Their presence surrounding the entire area like an unbreakable wall.

Some were fixing torches, some arranging tents, some standing still like shadows carved into the night.

Everywhere she looked-

There were unfamiliar faces.

Unfamiliar gazes.

Her breath hitched slightly.

Instinctively-

Her hand rose.

And without wasting a second, she pulled her dupatta forward... covering her face carefully, shielding herself behind a soft veil.

As if hiding was the only safety she had left.

The women around her exchanged brief, confused glances.

They weren't used to this.

But no one questioned her.

No one dared to.

Ruhani lowered her gaze, her fingers still holding the edge of the veil tightly.

Then softly

"Chaliye..."

Her voice was low.

Controlled.

Yet it carried a quiet urgency.

The sevikas immediately nodded.

"Ji, Sultana..."

They began to move with her.

Carefully guiding her through the uneven ground of the forest.

Her steps were slow... cautious...

Every rustle of leaves, every distant sound making her more aware of her surroundings.

The torches flickered beside her as she walked, their light dancing against her veiled face.

Yet even behind the cover-

She could feel it.

That same gaze.

Somewhere.

In the dark.

Watching her.

Unseen.

Unmoving.

And no matter how much she tried to ignore it-

Her heart knew-

She wasn't truly hidden.

The soft rustling of fabric followed as the women gently led Ruhani inside a tent.

The moment she stepped in-

She paused.

Her eyes slowly moved around, taking in everything.

The tent was spacious... far more comfortable than she had expected. A neatly arranged bed rested at the center, covered in fine sheets. Beside it stood a small wooden table, upon which a jug of water and a few utensils were placed carefully.

Soft rugs covered the ground, and a faint fragrance lingered in the air.

Everything was... prepared.

Everything was... proper.

Yet-

Something felt missing.

Ruhani's gaze moved again... scanning the corners... the table... the empty spaces around her.

As if she was searching for something.

But she couldn't find it.

A faint confusion settled on her face.

Then slowly-

She turned toward the same girl who had called her from outside the palki.

"Suniye..." she said softly.

The girl immediately stepped forward, lowering her gaze respectfully.

"Farmaaiye, Sultana..."

Ruhani looked at her... then gently at the murti in her hands.

"Kya aap ek aur mez yahan rakhwa dengi...?" she said in a calm, polite tone,

"humein apne Kanha ji ko baithana hai... woh bhi thak gaye honge..."

The girl blinked.

Confusion clearly visible on her face.

She instinctively glanced around the tent... as if trying to understand who Ruhani was referring to.

Then looked back at her.

"Gustakhi maaf farmaaiye, Sultana..." she said carefully,

"magar aap kis ke baare mein irshaad farma rahi hain...?"

Ruhani's expression softened.

She slightly lifted her hand... indicating toward the murti.

"Humare Kanha ji..."

The girl followed her gesture-

And her confusion deepened.

She looked at the small idol... then at Ruhani... then again at the idol.

Not understanding.

But not questioning further either.

She turned slightly toward another girl standing beside her.

"Farukh..." she called softly,

"zara ek aur mez le aao... Sultana ke liye."

"Ji..." the girl nodded quickly and stepped out.

The first girl turned back toward Ruhani, lowering her gaze once again.

"Abhi haazir kar diya jayega, Sultana..."

Ruhani nodded faintly.

Her fingers gently caressed the murti.

And for the first time since entering-

A small sense of comfort settled within her.

Because even in a place that wasn't hers...

She had brought a piece of home with her.

The tent had gone quiet after the last of the servants stepped out. The heavy fabric walls no longer rustled with movement. Outside sounds felt distant, almost unreal.

Only Ruhani and the girl remained inside.

Ruhani stood still, her fingers gently holding the Krishna murti close to her chest. Her gaze was fixed on it-soft, distant... as if she was holding onto a piece of her own world in a place that felt entirely different

The girl observed her for a brief moment, then turned slightly toward the entrance and spoke in a calm, controlled voice.

"Sab log baahar tashreef le jaayein..."

she said.

"Hazoor-e-Sultana ka khayaal hum aur Farukh rakh lenge. Aap sab apna baaqi kaam sambhaliye."

One by one, the servants lowered their heads and quietly left the tent.

Silence deepened.

Now only two remained.

The girl turned back to Ruhani, her posture still respectful, her voice softer now.

"Hazoor Sultana... aap tab tak kuch aaraam farma lijiye..."

Ruhani finally lifted her eyes from the murti to her. There was hesitation in her gaze... like she was still trying to understand this gentleness.

The girl noticed the way Ruhani held the idol closer.

Her expression softened further.

Her tone turned even more careful, more reassuring.

"Hazoor... aap inki fikr bilkul na farmaiye."

"Hum inka poora khayaal rakhenge..."

Ruhani didn't respond. Her grip stayed the same-protective, instinctive.

The girl quickly lowered her gaze, then spoke again, her voice carrying a slight apology.

"Maafi chahti hain agar humari kisi baat se aapko nagawari hui ho..."

A brief pause.

Then she continued, even more gently, words chosen carefully.

"Magar hum aapko yaqeen dilate hain... hum inhein haath tak nahi lagayenge."

"Yeh aapki amanat hai, Sultana... aur amanat ki hifazat hum par farz hai."

A faint stillness followed her words.

Ruhani's eyes stayed on her for a moment longer.

The girl stood patiently, head slightly bowed, not rushing her, not forcing anything-just waiting in quiet respect.

And in that silence, something subtle shifted in the air... like trust, still fragile, had just begun to take its first breath.

Ruhani stood quietly for a moment, still holding the Krishna murti close to her. The soft light inside the tent made her face look calmer now, though her eyes still carried a trace of hesitation.

She finally looked at the girl and asked softly,

"Aapka naam kya hai...?"

The girl immediately lowered her gaze with respect and replied in a gentle,  tone,

"Sultana... humara naam Nadia hai... hum aapki khadima hain."

She paused for a brief moment, then continued, her voice a little warmer as she glanced toward the entrance.

"Aur jo ladki abhi baahar gayi thi... woh Farukh hai... humari chhoti behen."

Ruhani gave a small, almost understanding nod, her expression softening slightly.

Just then, the tent flap moved again.

Farukh entered carefully, carrying a small table. She stepped in quickly but respectfully, her eyes briefly lifting toward Ruhani before she lowered her gaze.

In a soft voice she asked,

"Huzoor... is mez ko hum kahan rakhein?"

Ruhani looked at her for a moment, then replied gently with a faint smile,

"Aap inhein us taraf rakh dijiye..."

Farukh nodded immediately.

"Ji huzoor."

She walked forward and carefully placed the table exactly where Ruhani had indicated. Her movements were quick but controlled, as if she was very conscious of her surroundings and the respect she needed to maintain.

Once done, she stepped back and stood beside Nadia, both of them now waiting quietly, their heads slightly bowed.

The tent fell back into a calm silence... but this time, it didn't feel as heavy as before.

Ruhani slowly walked toward the small table. With quiet devotion, she placed the Krishna murti carefully on it, adjusting it gently so it stood properly.

Then she joined her hands in prayer, her voice soft and filled with emotion.

"Shama kijiye, Kanha... aapko itna kasht uthanavpad raha hai..."

A brief silence followed her words.

On the side, Nadia and Farukh exchanged confused glances. Their eyes shifted from Ruhani to the murti, then to each other-clearly unable to understand why the Sultana was speaking to a simple idol with so much devotion.

Ruhani noticed their silence.

She turned toward them with a soft smile and asked,

"Nadia... humara samaan kahan rakha hai? Humein aavshakta hai

Nadia immediately stepped forward, lowering her gaze respectfully, and replied

"Sultana... aapka samaan us jaanib rakha gaya hai..."

(she gently pointed toward a corner of the tent)

"wahaan ek badi attachi  maujood hai..."

Ruhani nodded softly.

"Ji... Dhanyawad aap dono ki madad ke liye..."

Farukh quickly bowed her head slightly and spoke with respect,

"Maafi chahte hain, Huzoor... magar hum dono aapki khadima hain... humara farz hai aapki khidmat baja lana."

Ruhani's expression softened further at her words.

She stepped closer and gently placed her hand on Farukh's cheek with affection. Farukh froze in surprise, her eyes widening slightly, while Nadia looked equally startled.

Ruhani looked at Farukh and asked gently,

"Farukh... aapki umr kya hai?"

Farukh glanced briefly at Nadia, then lowered her gaze and replied respectfully,

"Ji Sultana... is khadima ki umr solah saal hai..."

Ruhani then turned her gaze toward

Nadia.

"Aur aapki, Nadia?"

Nadia bowed her head further and answered softly,

"Ji huzoor-e-Sultana... is khadima ki umr atharah saal hai..."

Ruhani smiled faintly and said,

"Hum bhi atharah saal ke hain..."

A quiet pause followed.

Nadia and Farukh exchanged a subtle glance again-but now their confusion had softened into a quiet respect, as if they were beginning to see not just a Sultana... but a girl their age, wrapped in circumstances far heavier than hers.

Ruhani stood quietly for a moment, then spoke softly again,

"Nadia... humein nahana hai aur vastra bhi badalne hain..."

Nadia immediately looked up, concern flickering in her eyes. She stepped slightly forward and replied in careful, respectful

"Maafi chahti hain, Huzoor-e-Sultana... magar is itni raat ko aap kaise ghusl farmaengi? Bahar sakht sardi hai..."

Farukh, standing just behind her, quickly added with concern in a more formal tone,

"Aapi sahi arz farma rahi hain, Sultana... is waqt ghusl karna aapki tabiyat ke liye munasib nahin hoga..."

Ruhani gave a faint, calm smile, her tone gentle but certain.

"Humein iski aadat hai... aap bas vyavastha Krva  dijiye..."

Nadia hesitated only for a moment, then slightly bowed her head.

She turned toward Farukh and said in a firm but respectful  tone,

"Farukh... tum yahin thehro. Hum Sultana-e-Aliya ke liye ghusl aur libaas ka intezaam karne jaa rahe hain."

Farukh nodded immediately, her voice obedient and soft.

"Ji Aapi... jaisa aap hukm dein."

Nadia cast one last respectful glance toward Ruhani, then quietly stepped out of the tent to make arrangements.

The soft rustle of fabric faded again, leaving the space quieter than before.

Now only Ruhani and Farukh remained inside.

Ruhani turned slightly toward Farukh, her expression warm and gentle. After a brief pause, she said softly,

"Farukh... aap bhi vishraam kijiye..."

The words fell quietly in the tent.

Farukh froze for a moment.

Her eyes lifted toward Ruhani in clear confusion... and a hint of shock. It wasn't just the suggestion-it was the tone.

A Sultana telling a khadima to rest was not something she had expected, not even in the softest imagination.

Farukh hesitated, then quickly lowered her gaze and spoke in a careful, respectful tone,

"Maafi chahti hoon, Huzoor-e-Sultana... magar hum khadima hain... hum kaise aapke saamne aaraam farma sakte hain? Yeh humare liye munasib nahin hai..."

She paused, then added more softly, still struggling to understand,

"Humara farz hai aapki khidmat mein haazir rehna... Aaram farmane ka haq hum par nahin..."

Ruhani looked at her for a moment-her gaze calm, almost understanding the hesitation behind her words.

She stepped a little closer, her voice still gentle but firm in its softness.

"Farukh... yahan sirf hum teen hain... Sultana aur khadima ka faisla baahar ki duniya ke liye hota hai... yahan nahin."

Farukh blinked, still unsure, her hands nervously clasped in front of her.

She didn't respond immediately... as if her training and her instinct were both pulling her in different directions.

The tent remained quiet again-but now that silence carried something new... a quiet conflict between duty and the unexpected kindness she was being shown.

After quite some hesitation-and Ruhani's calm insistence-Farukh finally lowered herself onto a chair near the edge of the tent. Her posture was still stiff, hands folded tightly, as if she wasn't fully at ease with the idea of sitting in front of her Sultana.

The silence didn't last long.

The tent flap moved again, and Nadia returned.

She stepped in quickly, her gaze respectful as it landed on Ruhani. She bowed her head slightly, standing in proper etiquette.

Farukh, however, straightened immediately. A flicker of discomfort crossed her face, as if she was about to speak-something close to protest or concern.

But before she could say anything-

Ruhani's voice came, calm but firm.

"Humne kaafi prayash ke baad Farukh ko baithaya  hai, Nadia... aur hum aap se bhi yhi khte hain ke humein is tarah ka vyavhar pasand nahin."

The tone wasn't harsh-but it carried authority.

Nadia immediately lowered her gaze further, her voice turning nervous and respectful as she replied in formal

"Maafi chahti hain, Huzoor-e-Sultana... hum se khata sarzad hui..."

She paused, then continued quickly,

"Sultana... aap ke ghusl khaane ka intezaam mukammal ho chuka hai."

Ruhani's shoulders relaxed slightly, as if she could finally breathe a little easier.

"Chaliye..." she said softly.

But then she paused.

Her eyes moved back to Farukh, who was still sitting awkwardly on the chair.

Ruhani spoke again, gently but thoughtfully,

"Farukh... aap yahin rukiye."

Then her gaze shifted toward the Krishna murti on the table. A soft, protective warmth came into her expression.

"Humare Kanha ji... akele nahin rehne chahiye."

Farukh looked up, a little surprised-but she nodded immediately, her voice low and respectful.

"Ji, Sultana... jaisa aap ka hukm."

Ruhani gave a small, satisfied nod.

Then she turned and walked out with Nadia, the soft rustle of fabric following them as they left the tent.

Farukh remained behind-silent, still seated-but now alone with the quiet presence of the tent and the small idol placed carefully on the table.

After some time, the tent flap moved again.

Ruhani entered with Nadia.

The moment Farukh saw them, she immediately stood up from the chair out of respect. Her posture straightened at once, eyes lowered slightly.

Ruhani noticed her and gave a soft, gentle smile in return.

She looked different now—fresh from the bath, her hair still damp, a few strands softly framing her face. The faint scent of water and herbs lingered around her. She wore her traditional night attire, simple yet graceful, with bangles lightly adorning her wrists, an anklet softly catching each step, and a delicate nuptial chain resting at her neck—quietly marking her identity.

There was a calm dignity in her presence, yet also a softness, like someone carrying devotion within herself.

Without wasting a moment, Ruhani moved toward her trunk. She opened it quickly and carefully took out her essentials.

Then, almost instinctively, she walked straight toward the Krishna murti.

Her movements changed completely—focused, familiar, almost practiced. She arranged everything with quiet devotion and began her worship.

Her fingers moved with steady faith, her lips softly murmuring prayers as if this was not a ritual, but a part of her daily breath.

Behind her, Nadia and Farukh stood near the center of the tent.

They didn’t interrupt.

They just watched.

Their earlier confusion had now turned into something else—curiosity mixed with a quiet, unspoken admiration. Farukh’s eyes followed Ruhani’s every movement, while Nadia observed silently, her expression thoughtful.

For a moment, the tent felt less like a place of formality… and more like a space gently touched by something deeply personal.

Ruhani was still immersed in her worship, her attention completely centered on the Krishna murti, her voice low and steady with devotion.

Nadia and Farukh stood quietly in the middle of the tent, still watching her in silence.

And then

The tent flap moved again.

A sudden presence entered.

Both Nadia and Farukh instantly stiffened in their places. Their bodies went still at once, as if even breathing carefully had become important. Their eyes shifted toward the entrance, alert and respectful.

The atmosphere in the tent changed immediately—calm turning into formal tension.

Farukh instinctively lowered her gaze, her hands clasping together. Nadia also straightened, her expression becoming controlled and attentive.

Neither of them spoke.

They simply stood there, waiting silent, alert watching who had entered, while behind them Ruhani remained seated in devotion, unaware for that brief moment of the shift in the room’s energy.

The moment the tent flap lifted fully, a heavy silence seemed to settle in the air.

Sultan entered.

His presence alone changed the atmosphere of the tent—calmness tightening into something sharper, more controlled. He walked in with an effortless authority, his gaze steady, his aura carrying a quiet intensity that made even the air feel still.

His eyes moved first.

And landed on Ruhani.

She was still seated near the Krishna murti, completely absorbed in her worship, unaware of his arrival. Her hands were joined, lips moving in soft prayer, her attention entirely devoted.

For a brief moment, he just watched her.

Then his gaze shifted.

To Nadia and Farukh.

Both of them immediately lowered their eyes further, standing straighter under his silent authority.

His voice came next—low, firm, and controlled.

“Aap dono baahar tashreef le jaa sakti hain.”

There was no need for repetition.

Nadia immediately bowed her head deeply.

“Ji, Huzoor-e-Aali…”

Farukh followed quickly, her voice equally respectful,

“Ji, Sultan-e-Aali…”

Without another word, both of them turned and quietly stepped out of the tent, the fabric falling back into place behind them.

Silence returned.

Now only two remained inside.

Sultan.

And Ruhani.

He stood still for a moment, his gaze returning to her once again.

And she still unaware continued her prayer, her world temporarily untouched by the shift that had just taken place behind her.

Sultan didn’t speak further.

His gaze lingered on Ruhani for a moment longer, watching her completely unaware of his presence. Then, with slow, controlled ease, he moved toward the bed.

Without breaking his attention from her even for a second, he lay down casuallyalmost deliberately calm. One hand went under his head, elbow slightly raised for support, as he settled into a relaxed posture.

But his eyes…

They didn’t relax.

They stayed fixed on her.

Ruhani was still seated near the Krishna murti, her attention fully immersed in prayer, her soft voice barely breaking the silence. The glow of the small lamp near her cast gentle shadows across her face, making her look even more distant from the world behind her.

Sultan’s gaze remained steady.

Cold, observant… yet not empty.

There was something layered in it

control, curiosity… and something deeper that he himself did not acknowledge.

He studied her silently.

The way she moved her hands in devotion. The way her posture carried both grace and simplicity. The way she seemed completely untouched by the authority of the man sitting just a few steps behind her.

The tent was quiet.

Only her whispered prayers filled the space.

And Sultan, still lying on the bed, continued to watch her in silence—his expression unreadable, but his attention completely held by the girl who had not once turned around.

Ruhani finished her prayer after a few moments.

Slowly, she let her hands lower and exhaled softly. The calm she carried after worship still lingered on her face.

She turned around and stood up from her place.

Still unaware of Sultan’s presence.

Her fingers instinctively moved into her damp hair, gently combing through it as she spoke in a soft voice, more to Nadia than anyone else

“Nadia… humare atachi se ek vastra nikal dijiye, humein apne kesh sukhane hain…”

But there was no reply.

The tent felt quieter than before.

Ruhani paused slightly, sensing something off… but she didn’t look up yet.

On the other side, Sultan was still watching her.

His gaze shifted briefly around the tent, noticing the trunk in the corner. Without a word, he straightened from the bed and walked toward it.

The movement was silent, controlled.

He opened the trunk.

Inside, he found a clean cloth. He picked it up carefully, his expression still unreadable.

Then he turned.

And walked toward Ruhani.

She was still standing there, completely unaware, her fingers gently working through her wet hair, her attention on something that felt far away from him.

Sultan stopped just a short distance behind her.

Still silent.

Still watching.

The cloth remained in his hand as he looked at her, the contrast between her unaware calm and his quiet presence making the air between them feel heavier… like something unspoken had just stepped closer.

The distance between them reduced to barely a breath.

But before he could say anything

Something in Ruhani shifted.

An instinct.

A sudden awareness that the presence behind her… was not Nadia… not Farukh.

Someone else.

Danger.

Without a second of hesitation, her hand moved swiftly toward her waist. From beneath the folds of her attire, she pulled out a small concealed knife her grip firm, her movement sharp.

And in one fluid motion

She turned.

The blade aimed forward.

But it never reached.

Because in the very next second

His hand caught her wrist mid-air.

Firm… but not harsh.

The blade stilled between them.

Before the moment could settle, his other hand moved to her waist—

Not roughly…

But with a controlled, steady pull.

Ruhani’s breath hitched.

Her balance slipped—

And instead of falling away…

She was drawn into him.

Softly.

Her body collided with his chest, not with force, but with a sudden closeness that made her freeze. The knife remained trapped between their hands, but her attention was no longer on it.

His grip on her wrist loosened slightly

still holding, but no longer restraining.

While his hand at her waist remained… firm, yet strangely gentle now.

Ruhani looked up.

Her eyes met his.

For a second, everything went silent.

Too silent.

She could feel the warmth of his hand at her waist, the steady rise and fall of his breath, the nearness that felt almost unreal after the distance she had been holding onto.

Sultan didn’t move away.

His gaze stayed locked on hers intense, unreadable… yet no longer just cold. There was something else beneath it now, something quieter… something that lingered.

Ruhani’s fingers, still holding the knife, weakened slightly.

Not out of fear

But because her heartbeat had changed.

The tension that had brought the blade forward now stood tangled with something unfamiliar… something softer, more dangerous in its own way.

Neither of them spoke.

Neither stepped back.

And in that suspended moment

What began as instinct and defense…

Turned into something far more complicated.

Sultan’s gaze stayed locked on Ruhani for a few long seconds.

Unmoving. Unblinking.

His hold on her wrist loosened just enough to show control… not release. While the hand at her waist remained steady, almost claiming the space between them.

Then finally

He spoke.

His voice was low.

Cold.

Carrying a quiet threat beneath every word.

“Hum Sultan hain, Rajkumari…”

A faint pause.

His eyes didn’t leave hers.

“Aur Sultan par vaar karna… sirf jurm nahi hota—baghawat ke zumer mein aata hai.”

His fingers tightened slightly around her wrist, just enough to remind her of the knife still trapped between them.

“Agar yeh tegh ek zarra bhi aage barh jaati…”

his voice dropped even lower this time he spoke near her ear giving a sensual waves to her but , almost a whisper of warning,

“toh aapka anjaam sirf saza tak mehdood na rehta… misaal bana diya jata.”

His gaze darkened, intensity deepening.

“Aur yaad rakhiye… Sultan par uthane wali har nazar… aur har haath… zinda nahin chhoda jata.”

A brief silence.

Heavy.

Then, his tone shifted still calm, but more dangerous now because of its quiet control.

“Is liye, agli martaba… tegh uthane se pehle… yeh zaroor sochiye ga… ke saamne kaun khada hai.”

The words settled between them like something final.

His hold didn’t break.

And neither did his gaze.

.........................................................................

🫣 KAISA LGA cliffhanger 😌

But I promise…

in the next chapter, you’ll finally get to see Sultan and Ruhani together 😶

Look, I didn’t want to rush anything, that’s why I only showed a small part of Ruhani’s life in this chapter…

But in the next chapter, I’m sure you all are going to be really happy 🥺

And please tell me…

How did you like Ruhani? 🥺

Target: 15 votes and 10 comments 😁

If you want the next chapter… complete it fast 👀✨