The Jainandini Chronicles| NEW UPDATE| PART 9| PG. 45 - Page 20

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PART SIX

Jainandini

I had made it home before eleven. But, it had not been an easy task. Yash had insisted that he drop me off to my door, and I had told him that this wasn't America, and he couldn't, so he settled for watching me enter the house. I had looked around and finally spotted the door of what would be one of Manyata's friend's chawl. I position my back towards him and knock on the door; to him it might look as if I'm unlocking it. My luck must be good because it's the little short one with the odd hair that opens it. Chiki I think. She looks more like someone with Giant Chickpeas on her head. Oh well. She's about to yell something at me, but I barge in and shut the door behind me. And off she goes, the little runt.

Chiki: What are you doing here!?

I think about what I should say. I can't tell her why I'm here. But'.I could make something happen.

Me: Manyata misses you, I thought I'd let you know.

Chiki: Yeah right. Like you actually care about her.

Me: You're right, I don't really care, but I can't stand the constant whining and lost looks she has. Drop by and say hi once and a while.

Chiki: You came to tell me this at 10:30 in the evening?

Me: I was driving by and it just came to me, don't go thinking it's a special run for you. Now, If you'll excuse me, I need to get going.

She looks at me like I'm nuts, and I can't particularly blame her. But, ignoring the curious look I step outside, as calmly as possible. And he was still there. Not looking at me particularly, but around the Chawl, a sad, drawn expression on his face. Oh shit. I don't know him that well...but I can tell by that expression he wants to make a difference: help out. Can't blame him though, I've lead him to believe that I'm just some poor Indian girl he met by chance.
Good Job Jai, how the hell are you going to dig yourself out of this hole?

He's distracted looking at the fence, Thankfully, being in flats I'm able to rush down and make my way out of the Chawl. Catching a rickshaw isn't that difficult, and I'm on my way to the palace. Throughout the entire ride...I can't help but feel a little guilt ridden.

Getting home, I'm a little surprised. I can't hear what's going on, but two figures on the roof top are at odds with each other...yelling at each other...then one voice rises above the other: loud and clear.

Manyata: Just leave Uday. Just leave.

After that, there isn't any sound. I go into the palace and make my way to my room, Uday is coming down the stairs, looking pissed as hell- he ignores me and makes his way outside. Manyata is nowhere to be seen.

I'm waiting for that sense of elation that would have taken over me had this instance occurred a few weeks ago: But I feel nothing- no happiness, no joy, no sense of satisfaction. I do feel a little curious: but I guess that's a natural sense of curiosity that takes over any person when they sense conflict: What's wrong? Who started it? Will it get better? Part of me even wonders if I should check up on her. Manyata. But I don't. I'm not ready yet. I don't want to be her friend, her sister. It's too soon. Instead, I find myself in my room, stripping down and heading into the washroom to clean up. The sheets are soft, and sleep comes easy: this time, there aren't any nightmares.

___________________

The sun was bright, and the morning beautiful, breakfast was a quite affair at the palace: simple chit chat and no conflict: the two sisters had learned to live in peace with each other- there was little affection, but no malice. That was better than any of the three adults had hoped for. The princess were both dressed in purple outfits, J in a dark purple strapless minni, and Manyata in a light purple anarkali suit with Champaign and copper accents. They sat beside each other, yet failed to speak a single word.

Her phone vibrated and she glanced at it quickly. It was a text from Yash "Want to go biking later?" She looks at it, smiles and replies "Sure" just like that, her morning is a little brighter. Sensing the shift in her granddaughter's mood, Dadi Shab wastes no time in getting her point across, while she has a chance.

DS: J, later today Mahraja Rajendra Singh of Ravghard is dropping by for tea...I think it would be best If you stay in today.

J looked up a little confused, and the recalled the discussion her grandmother had had with her a few days before. The Prince of Ravghard...the crumbling empire. Oh no.

J: DS...I think I need some time.

DS: We don't have time J. Rajendra will find another Princess if we don't act.

She bit her tongue...but the words were right on her lips Then let him find another princess!.

DS: He should be coming this afternoon, to tell us a little more about his grandson. I've discovered a little more about him too

The entire table's eyes were glued towards the Rajmata, attentively listening to her every word.

DS: This is the first time he'll be meeting his grandson. He's an only child, his mother married a man without Rajendra's approval. He's born and raised in the United States, and went to school in England.

Brijraj: Ma Shab, what about his age? How old is he?

DS: I believe he's 24 turning 25 Brijraj- a year younger then Uday

Komal: How is his family Ma Shab? Is he a good young man like Uday?

Brijraj: No one can be like Uday Komal.

DS: I'm not too sure, I know he's well educated, athletic and an overall a good person. Rajendra hasn't said much. No one in the Indian Royal house even knew he had a grandson.

Brijraj: He just wants his grandson now because he doesn't have an heir, and the estate will be split up if he doesn't find someone to give crown to.

DS: Whatever it may be Brijraj, there are more Rajkumaris then there are Yuvraj's in the Royal House. Rajendra has come to us, asking for J. Devgard would do well having two Yuvrani's in the kingdom: One for Jaigard, the other for Ravgard.

A shiver went down J's spin. Things were getting too real for comfort. This prince was coming to life piece by piece, and today she would have to meet his grandfather. She excused herself, and slipped into her room. Quickly changing into her biking attire of shorts, and tank top and a messy pony tail. Picking up her phone, she dialed his number, he answered on the second ring.

J: You ready to go?

She could sense his grin from the other side of the line, and he answered in one word.

Yash: Always.

_________________________

She biked like a mad woman, her pace fast, unstoppable and swift. She was burning off energy that would otherwise drive her insane. In her mind, DS was the peddle she kept pushing down, but it always managed to find its way back...forever leaving her going in circles. But this momentum could be directed towards a destination: and right now her destination was Yash. She couldn't tell him what was on her mind, but he could take her mind off of the burden that plagued her thoughts. He could make her forget until this evening- that she was a princess; that she did have responsibilities; that she was being bartered.

She ignored that though, tried to put it in the back of her mind, and simply biked. Eventually the journey calmed her- slowed her down. Her heart rate was finally coming down, she could finally breathe. But then, she saw him. She could honestly say that he was the only one that made her feel this way. Not even Uday had made her heart get stuck in her throat, simply by his presence. He had committed certain actions and created certain moments that had invoked emotions beyond her control: But Yash had the power to simply stop her, just by being near. He was dressed extremely casually in black sweat pants and a white t-shirt, a black Yankees ball cap over his hair, and large Ray Bans covering his eyes. She knew the very moment that his eyes locked on hers. He wasn't subtle or playing a game: He grinned when he say her, gesturing her to come forward. She had an urge to just run to him. But stopped herself. She needed to have some self-respect when it came to him. Just some. Just for herself; to ensure she was never vulnerable, and weak again. No man, would ever again have that power over her. Not even Yash.

She walked up to him, slowly, gathering her breath, and never taking her eyes away from his. He walked up to her, confident, relaxed'and happy. Genuinely happy to see her. She hadn't felt that from anyone in a very long time: Happiness at seeing her. It was a novelty and she savored it. He handed her a water bottle, cool and sealed, then leaned against the railing separating the path from the beach.

Yash: So Nandini, what's up?

J: Nothing, just wanted to go for a ride.

Yash: Lies.

J: Sure, think what you want.

Yash: Come on. I'm not an idiot. You like me, but you'd never come rushing to see me. You're too high strung for that.

She stood up taller, raised her eyebrow, and poked his chest.

J: You're so full of yourself!

Yash: No I'm not. I'm just being honest.

Her nose was pointing up wards towards him in distain.

J: No, you think your God's gift to man and definitely act like it! I just wanted to get some air and thought you'd be some decent company! So get your ego in check!

He grinned and stole her water bottle and downed some of the cool clear liquid.

Yash: Good, now that you sound like yourself, let's go. Bet I can beat you.

And with that he mounted his bike, and started off. J didn't know whether to scream or cry. He was intentionally trying to rile her up so she would get back to normal. She settled for neither and mounted her bike, determined to beat him.

They didn't talk. For an hour they just wandered the streets on their bikes, from the beach to the park, and enjoyed the breeze. No words were needed, but the simple companionship cleansed her soul; they were heading back to the beach when he finally spoke.

Yash: So, first one to the beach wins.

J: Wins what?

Yash: Ahh...a dare. Winner gets to dare the other person. Deal?

She grinned, confident she would beat him.

She jump started before he said go, and he protested for a second, but soon started peddling knowing full well she did it intentionally. J knew he was catching up: of course he would; he was stronger, leaner, and just as determined. But J wasn't one to go down without a fight- if need be she would play dirty. Keeping her eyes on the prize she opened up her hair, which flew behind her, she knew his eyes would follow. And they did. He knew what she was doing, but couldn't help himself. And it wasn't as if he had much of a physical advantage to distract her, considering he didn't have long hair, or her attributes. They were neck in neck now, and J pulled out the stops. She rose, and peddled standing up. That made him almost fall off his bike. Her short clung to her, and she picked up the pace.

Yash: You definitely know how to distract people Nandini.

Shaking his head he went after her, but it was too late, she had made it to the beach, and was leaning against her bike, panting and laughing. Her tricks had bought her an additional 5 seconds, which was exactly how far behind Yash was.

He dismounted and shook his head at her.

Yash: I should have known, none of my sisters played fair either.

He had his arms crossed across his chest, legs braced apart and looked intimidating, but she knew he was smiling, the slight tilt of his lips, and laughter in his voice.

J: It's not our fault you guys are so easily'distracted.

Yash: I guess so.

He pulled out his water bottle and passed it to her.

Yash: Here, you look hot.

She guzzled down some of the liquid and between gulps spoke.

J: I am, I hadn't realized how long it had been since I'd push myself like that.

Yash: And It's warm today.

J: its scorching

She should have noticed, but she was too busy gaining her breath, and by the time she realized something was wrong, it was too late. He had hoisted her over his shoulders and was walking towards the water.

J: Yash! No ! Put me down! Don't ! YASH! I WILL KILL YOU!

Yash: But it's hot Nandini! And you need to cool off!

J: NOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's Gross SEA WATER!!!

And he did it. He jogged towards the water and dumped her right in.

She screamed as she hit the cool water, and as the salt water entered her mouth and nose, but quickly righted herself and glared at him. She was chest deep, and her open hair was plastered to her face. He was also wet, but his shoulders and face had been spared. He was laughing like crazy. Rajkumari Jainandini did not take too kindly to being dumped in water.

She lunged after him, dunking him downwards, and then coming back up. She expected outrage or anger, but he was still laughing. His hat was floating away, and he ran his fingers through his wet hair; the water making it black as night. And soon his laughter faded away, and she was at a loss for words. Exhaustion and fatigue were catching up, and she found herself in his arms. She didn't know why, or how, but it felt like home. He was tentative, but finally he wrapped his arms around her waist, engulfing her. Her face rested against his chest, her warm skin seeping though there cloths and meeting his. She couldn't meet his eyes throughout the embrace, but she did say some words.

J: Thank you for being here Yash.

He rested his check above her head, and she swore she could feel him smile.

Yash: I'll always be here Nandini.

She felt choked up, and tensed a bit at his kind words which made her want and long. Because...he would always be here for Nandini, but could he do that for Jainandini?

_________________________

Jainandini

He's the first one to let go, and suddenly I feel a little empty inside. He smiles, and grabs his hat which is bobbing away, and gently places it on my head. We must have made a sight as we made our way out of the water. Our clothes are sticking to our bodies, thankfully both my tank top and shorts had been black, so there was no overtly presumptuous image, but his shirt was white, it left nothing to the imagination. I guess I hadn't been too far off when I had said Yash was God's gift to man. He was definitely God's gift to woman kind. Sculpted, toned and lean'yet oddly humble. There wasn't arrogance or the attitude that he could get any girl, any day, at any time: which was something Uday had had before Manyata. Instead, he gently held my hand as we made our way to the beach, with the other he reached down and grabbed his sunglasses, also placing them on my face. He reached into the bag on his bike, and pulled out his cell phone, called someone.

Yash: Hi, This is Laim Ryan, I'd like someone to pick me up from the beach please, and bring a Van for two Bicycles; and some towels please. Yes, I'll see you in 15, thank you.

We lean against the sea wall again, and look out towards the water, the sun dries out wet clothes, and the sand sticks to our wet feet.

Me: Why Yash, and not Liam?

Yash: Huh?

Me: I know your name is Liam Yashvardan Ryan, and I call you Yash, but you just told this person that you're Liam.

Yash: I guess it's easier to just officially refer to myself as Liam. My dad's side likes to call me Liam. But throughout school, and even at home, it's always been Yash.

Me: But why?

Yash: I don't know, I guess it's the little piece of heritage my mom wanted to keep with her. My sister's tell me apparently my Granny Ryan wasn't too happy about that either though. Thought the name was too long and cumbersome.

Me: Did she argue about your sister's names as well?

Yash: No, I don't think so.

Me: Why though?

Yash: Well, because there isn't really anything Indian in their names I guess.

Me: Mina, Nina, and Mia. Yeah, you're right. Not particularly Indian. But very nice.

Yash: What's your sister's name?

I don't hesitate while answering. There's no question that she can't be Manyata, simply because Manyata and Uday are all over the Tabloids around here.

Me: Moniya.

Yash: I like Nandini better.

I roll my eyes at his dorky smile

Me: I sense no bias what so ever Yash.

Yash: Hey, I'm just a neutral party. Nandini sounds much better.

I gulp a little, how would he react if he found out I was lying? Hiding the truth from him? I look down towards the sand, and hear his phone ring.

Yash: Yes, we'll come right up.

I follow his lead and guide our bikes towards a white commercial van. And Almost fall over. It's the shuttle vehicle from Uday's hotel. Oh shit He's staying THERE. Out of all the freaking 5 star hotels in Mumbai he's staying there. Wow. Luck, is just not on my side.

He helps put in the bikes and opens the door for me, I hope in and grab a towel and sit down, and he does the same. The ride is a short 15 minutes across the city, and we continue our conversation.

Yash: So, what are you doing tonight Nandini?

Me: Ahh...some family stuff.

He doesn't frown or look disappointed, but clasps my hand.

Yash: I guess I'd better savor whatever time we have for now, before you have to run away Cinderella.

I feel a little uncomfortable at the princess reference, wondering if he's on to me. Oh god.

Me: What did you have in mind?

Yash: Just thought about a movie or something. Nothing big. But we can always do that later.

Me: So, what are you going to do this evening then?

Yash: I guess some stuff. I have to meet my grandfather soon though.

His jaw is tense, and unable to help myself, I run my hand down his cheek; just to sooth, and support. It's something I wasn't expecting to do, but found myself doing either way. And it worked. Sort of. He smiles and continues to hold my hand.

Me: You don't like him very much Yash.

He looks forward, the smile fading from his eyes, and something cynical replacing it.

Yash: No. I hate him.

I don't know why I asked him, but part of me wanted a response: I guess even royals have a curious streak of wanting to know other people's business.

Me: Then why meet him?

I shouldn't have asked, because his response was painful, each word held such power, and anger that I wouldn't understand it even if I wanted to.

Yash: Because my mom died missing him, so I might as well meet him once.

And that was the end of that. He looked forward towards the windshield with unforgiving eyes and hatred. I can honestly say the distain he has is something I've never experienced before. Not even towards Manyata- heck, not even towards Uday. His hatred is powerful, strong...and unyielding.

I'm wondering what it is: what story is behind this pain, anger and resentment.

Yash: I'll tell you someday Nandini.

It's as if he can read my mind, and I can't even say I'm surprised. I tend to let my guard down in front of him, his hand is in mine, and mine in his, and suddenly the world doesn't seem so scary.

We leave the towels in the van and step in hand in hand towards the Hotel. I feel as if eyes are looking at me, judging me, but they're not. Everyone goes upon their business, and I can honestly say, no one would think this scrungy beach bum is Rajkumari J. I look like a tourist. We stop at the reception desk were Yash pulls out his wallet, and asks for an adjacent room to his suit. I'm surprised.

Me: why are you doing that Yash? I just need the shower, and I'm gone.

He leans in closer and speaks in a low tone for my ears only.

Yash: No Nandini, it wouldn't be right. Just use the suite next to mine, then I'll drop you home. Or you can bike home. Whichever is easier and less controversial for you.

I remembered what I had told him about me being from a lower middle class family. And he obviously respected me enough not to ruin whatever reputation I- as Nandini- may or may not have had. A true gentlemen was obviously difficult to find. Unless, one had Yash nearby. We're about to turn when my heart freezes. I hear Uday's voice, talking to Manyata. My hand grips the counter, and I'm unable to move. But Yash makes me start walking. I'm careful to stay behind him, but still turning about something gets stuck onto Yash's watch.

Yash: Sorry!

He lets it go, and I feel as if I'm going to die. It's a light purple Dupatta, and even without looking at her, I know it's Manyata that's standing a few feet away from Yash, beside her its Uday.

Manyata : Its alright, thank you though.

I'm waiting for them to proceed, but they don't instead I hear a big laugh from Uday. Oh Shit. He's seen me.

Uday: Yash!? Is that you? Holy shit! I'd hug you but you stink buddy.

I don't know what I'm going to do. Why God Why?! Why on earth do these two idiots have to KNOW each other! What type of sick joke is this! What the hell were you thinking!

Yash: Don't worry UV, I wouldn't want to hug you either, I'd catch some STD.

Uday: Asshole.

Yash: Jerk.

Are they fighting?

No, obviously not, because the burst out laughing and hug each other. Oh for the love of god, someone shoot me now! Right NOW!

I scoot away behind Yash, and look down. I'm not looking at them, but I can hear them perfectly. Thank goodness for Yash's glasses and hat.

Uday: So, what brings you here man?

Yash: Long story man; we'll chat over dinner and drinks some time, catch up. It's been a while!

Uday: It has! Are you staying here, at my place then?

Yash: Yeah, I knew it was yours but I wasn't expecting the great Yuvraj Udayveer Singh to be gracing me with his presence!

Uday laughed with Yash and carried the conversation.

Uday: Well, you're in luck you peasant. You've been graced by another royal today.

Oh shit. Oh Shit. Oh Shit.

Uday: Yash, meet my fiance Rajkumari Manyata of Devgard.

Thank god. Thank god. Thank god.

Yash: It's a pleasure meeting you princess.

Uday: No Ryan, forget it. I only call her princess.

Yash: Ok there Romeo. What do I call her then?

Manyata: You can call me Manyata Mr. Ryan.

Yash laughed whole heartedly I could feel his smile.

Yash: Well, in that case Manyata you should call me Yash.

Manyata : It's nice to meet you Yash.

Back off Bitch! He's mine!

I can just imagine her soft smile, and rosy cheeks! Why is this happening to me!?

Uday's phone rings and he excuses himself and Manyata politely leaves with him.
It finally occurs to me that for the first time in my life, I was actually ignored. And, I'm actually grateful for it. Ironic, no?

We make our way to the elevators, and I finally have the courage to ask.

Me: You know the Prince?

Yash: Oh Uday? Yeah, I always forget he's a prince. We went to Oxford together. I was in his class, even though I'm a year younger. See, you found a handsome and smart friend.

Alright...so he does know a little about Indian Royalty. I just hope Uday doesn't invite him over. Or worse yet. If Dad finds out Uday's oxford friend is here, he'll invite him over for sure. Oh shit.

He lets go of my hand for a second and rubs his eyes.

Yash: I'm so sorry Nandini! I didn't even introduce you. I just got caught up in meeting the idiot after a year that it slipped my mind.

He feels bad about forgetting me? Wow. This guys to too good to be real.

Me: It's Ok- don't really care about the royals anyways.

Yash: Yeah, most people don't. Uday is actually a nice guy. Well, to other guys. He's a jerk to woman, but he's been a good friend to me.

We step out of the elevator and he opens a door for me, and I step in, he goes in the adjacent suite.

And finally, my heart rate returns to normal.

_________________________

I stepped out of the shower to find clothes waiting me in shopping bags on the bed. They were from the Laura's boutique which was in the hotel, cream khaki shorts, with the hem folded, cut mid-thigh, and a white blouse with its sleeves reaching my shoulders. It was loose and flowy, cut right below the hip. A brown belt accented the shorts, along with tan flats, made from good leather. In the smallest bag there were accessories: a nice costume ring made from wood, and glass beaded in brown. He, had obviously understood that my work out clothes were too far gone, and I would need something else to wear. I feel a stupid smile take over my face at his consideration. Leaving my hair wet, I hold on to his cap and sun glasses. A knock interrupts any further thought.

Opening the door I see him standing there. Now, clad in a black dress shirt, black pants and a white belt, he looks every inch of the model he should have been. It is simply unfair. His hair was still wet, but now looks browner, and he has put on Yves St. Laurent sunglasses with white frames. Good looking, smart, considerate, and stylish. Liam Yashvardan Ryan is definitely a catch.

Yash: So, let's head out, we'll drop you off home so you don't get late, and then we're heading out?

The hair on the back of my neck stands up

Me : We? Whose we?

Yash: Oh, Uday. He's insisting that I go for a late lunch with him and his Finacee, Manyata.

Me: it's alright, I'll get home. I'd rather bike it anyways.

But no, this idiot has to act like the gentleman he is. Just my luck.

Yash: No, come on, we'll drop you off, and you should meet them. I didn't even introduce you last time.

Guess I have to really insist then.

Me: It's ok Yash, it's not important.

He misunderstands my anxiousness, and looks a little angry with himself. Reaching in, he holds my face both his hands. I can feel my knees turn into jelly.

Yash: You mean a lot to me Nandini, and I want the world to know. I don't want you to think that I didn't tell them about you for a reason. You matter.

I try to smile reassuringly, and place my hands above his.

Me: I know I matter you idiot, but I don't want to keep you guys waiting: It's almost 2:30, and I have still time, so I'll bike home. No worries.

He looks unsure, but doesn't push it.

Yash: You're sure?

Me: Yes, I'm sure. I'll meet them later, it's not like I'm going anywhere.

He smiles, and kisses my forehead, and as he does so, his phone vibrates, he reads the text aloud "From Uday: Hurry up you slacker- royals have a timeline to follow" and laughs.

He lets go of me, and starts walking away but looking back

Yash: Ok, I'm off then, I'll call you later Nandini.

I realize I'm still clutching onto his stuff.

Me: Yash!

He turns around and walks back towards me, a little worried- I feel like such an idiot right now, as I hesitantly hold out his items.

Me: You, you forgot your stuff.

He shakes his head and gently takes them and place them on my head and eyes.

Yash: It's your stuff Nandini. It looks better on you anyways.

He goes and down the elevator, and I wait for the next one. Because the hat is still wet, I take it off and fold it into the tan leather clutch Yash had bought and was in one of the shopping bags, but I decide to the sunglasses on. When I reach the lobby I look towards the door and see them. Or at least Yash and Manyata by the Door. He was showing her something on his phone I swear I can feel my blood boiling and indivertibly clench my fist in anger. I feel like running away, and turn around. Oh yes, my luck is that shitty today- because who do I bump into? Uday.

His eyes narrow as he looks at my face, and I can't help but narrow mine in return. The old Uday would have held me by the shoulders and tried to intimidate me. The new one simply crosses his arms and stares at me suspiciously.

Uday : What are you doing here?

I return the favour and cross my arms.

Me: It's a hotel Uday. I came here to meet a friend.

Uday: Really? You have any of those let?

I feel like punching his face out. But instead I smile; and I can't let that jab go- I'm not that big of a person yet.

Me: Of course Uday. Tons of those. Do you have any left or are you too busy holding Jeeji's purse?

He shakes his head and starts walking towards Manyata and Yash, Yash is too busy looking at his phone, but Manyata's eyes lock onto mine. She looks at me funny and walks away with the two of them. And I feel envy running through my veins. Manyata steps into the back seat, and Yash is about to get into the front passenger, but Uday is looking attentively towards my bike which is now leaning by the entrance.

Uday: What's this doing here Raju?

Raju: Sir, it's a madams and we're waiting for her to come down.

Uday: Tell her she can't keep her bike near the lobby: the old thing is an eye sore.

Yash: It's OK Uday. Your Hotel isn't going to fall apart because of some bike. It's my friend's.

He pulls out a big tip and gives it to the doorman.

Yash: Her name is Nandini and make sure you give her the bike, alright?

Raju: Yes Sir.

Uday: Oh ho. Nandini huh? Yash my man, you sound a little awestruck.

Yash: Up yours Uday.

Uday: Nah nah nah son, sounds like something is up yours.

Yash: Shut up.

Uday laughs and pulls on his shades, both men get into the car and drive off.

___________________

Jainandini

I had biked my way back to the palace in about an hour, and I was starving. Lunch had obviously been served, but I needed to eat something. Unable to resist I made my way down to the kitchen, and the chef almost dropped the plate when he saw me; but he obliged my request and made me a sandwich, smoothie and a fruit salad. I take my meal in my room and I almost feel a little sad. This meal isn't enjoyable: there isn't any laughter or conversation'any Yash. I feel a little envious that Manyata and Uday are getting to enjoy his company when it should me. Yet, I finish my meal and look at the time. It's 4, and the King of what-ever-the-place is called should be arriving. I don't want DS to get on my back for this, so I decide to change. Knowing she'll want a more traditional look, I choose a white anarkali suit, which cream accents, I let my hair dry into the waves and use some mousse for definition, and start on my makeup. It's almost 4:30 and like clockwork, the Palace Manager arrives to make sure I'm present for the King.

We've all conjugated in the hall, Manyata is the only one missing- I guess she's still out. Part of me wonders if DS had done that intentionally: make sure Manyata is out so the King doesn't get any ideas about obtaining the older Princess who was promised to another estate. He comes in. And he looks nothing like a king. He looks old, weary...and sick. His sick is ashen, his face, somber...and posture not as imposing as one would expect from a royal. His turban is a cream color, his dhothi and kurtha white and cream, and ruby broach adorns his chest, his turban, and his cane. But he looks tired, old...and sad. He walks slowly towards us, and we meet him half way: greetings comments and we make our way towards the drawing room. His hair is white as snow, as are his eyebrows, and his imposing mustache. His eyes crinkle around the corners and face is sullen. The only features he has which are striking are his eyes: a bright, imposing brown. He sits across from DS, where uncle Giri usually sits when he's visiting, Dad takes one seat, Mom and I share the sofa. And tea begins to be served. The chatter is first obsolete: how the estates are, who say whom and whats going on in the Indian Royal House. Then it gets interesting.

Brijraj: Mahraja Shab, Devgard he kyun? Why this Estate? Why this name?

Rajendra: Brijraj, I've been on this throne for 50 years now, when my father passed I was given no choice but to take it. And I've done a terrible job.

I think dad is about to choke on his tea, but he doesn't. DS looks a little surprised but the old King continues.

Rajendra: I've let my pride get in the way, and I destroyed the family I had. When my son was killed, I let things slip away from me.

DS: It's understandable Rajendra.

Rajendra: No Mirlanini. You lost your Heir as well. Rajkumari Manyata was missing for 16 years, but you still maintained this all: you let it grow and prosper. You didn't alientate your second granddaughter because of it.

Little does this old man know...

DS: We did what needed to be done Rajendra.

Rajendra: Yes, you did. And I didn't. I let Vidya leave. I didn't fight for my daughter Mirlanini.

Komal: Kaisi hai Vidya Mahraja Shab?

He looks at mom with sad eyes, I can honestly say I've never seen anyone hurt so much.

Rajendra: She's dead.

Mom composes herself, but I can tell she's hurt. DS simply places her tea-cup down, and folds her hands on her lap.

DS: I'm sorry for your loss Rajendra.

Rajendra: I am too Mirlanini. Vidya was the light of my life. And somehow, with Aryan gone, I forgot about her. I refused her happiness, thinking I could intimidate her: but she defied me and took her happiness anyways. I refused to see my grandchild: refused to see her and that husband of hers. I'm surprised they even let me know she died.

DS: What do you want Rajendra? What is it that you need?

Rajendra: I asked her son to come here. Aryan. He'll be the heir of estate.

DS: When is he coming?

Rajendra: Next week.

DS: And is he alright with this?

Rajendra: He will be. What man doesn't want to rule?

DS: Doesn't he know he's the heir?

Rajendra : I don't think Vidya told him anything- there weren't any quiries and I never reached out to him.

Brijraj: I beg your pardon Mahraja Shab, but what if he doesn't agree?

Rajendra: He will agree Brijraj! He must. Rajkumari Jainandini will make a beautiful bride, and will help him through the transition; but he needs to leave that country, those people and that man who is his father.

DS: Gustakyi Maaf, Rajendra: lekin hum apne pothi ki zindagi ek raaz kay saath nahi shuru kar sakthay hain. You need to tell us what Vidya did to have you so upset.

The old man got up, balancing himself on the cane, and signaling his assistant to bring forward a brief case, carefully he took out a picture and threw it on the table.

Rajendra: She married a white widower from the United States: The architect that was supposed to design our hotels.

We do a very good job of not being shocked, but I can almost feel my smoothie making its way back up my stomach.

She was a lovely woman, black hair, sunny brown eyes, small in stature, and curvy. Her smile was lovely...and I would recognize it anywhere.

She stood beside a tall Caucasian man. 6 foot two easily, and bright green eyes- I know those eyes...and that stature...that presence.

She was in a lovely peach saree, on a balcony, and he was in a traditional white shirvani...they stood a foot apart, but the way she looked at him said it all: They were madly in love.

Rajendra: I had hired him- the best from the United States- to stay with us for a month and design the resort that would bring in tourists and be a memorial for Aryan, my son. He had only been gone a few months and I needed to create something in his memory both for me, and my kingdom. It had been difficult, Mathias Ryan- that was his name- was a widower for over a year with three little girls, and had not wanted to come this far- but he did. And he took my daughter with him.

I feel as if I'm drowning...or as if the air in the room has simply disappeared. I walk away from the room, without excuses myself, I know I'm going to hear it later, and I won't be able to escape it.

But I can't help myself the irony of it all is catching up like a sick joke. Yash is a Prince. And he doesn't even know it.

But I do.

_________________________

Alright, first off I apologize for the big, big, big, big, BIG Delay. After my finals, got caught up with updating the UVCs (that was a monster update I tell you) then Tax Season was wrapping up; and now school is starting again. BUT I had to get this on paper, so I ended up typing this all today!😆

Anyways, your thoughts?

Reeha

All I can say is damn...and Amazing... Considering I am not the biggest fan of Jainandini you actually write her sympathetic which is impressive :o)

Hi reeha,
Lovely long read for me today. Thanks so much. You've got me hooked to these chronicles of yours!
I had guessed that yash was the prince in an earlier post but it was great to have it confirmed!
Glad there is a prince for JN. And I just think of JN from dek as a totally different person from your JN
You write sooo well! You should publish these as a book one day!
Jay

Originally posted by: DEKfan2012

Hi reeha,
Lovely long read for me today. Thanks so much. You've got me hooked to these chronicles of yours!
I had guessed that yash was the prince in an earlier post but it was great to have it confirmed!
Glad there is a prince for JN. And I just think of JN from dek as a totally different person from your JN
You write sooo well! You should publish these as a book one day!
Jay

Hi Jay! Glad the long read sort of makes up for the wait!😆

Soo...I'm bumping this. Just to make sure it's seen. It took me forever to type :)

wow...so much happenings !!! i had a feeling d grandson is yash as i started reading d chapter...awesome...uh oh bechari J, how will she come clean to yash ?!

wow Yash doesn't now that he is the sole heir to a throne! JaiNandini knows now, I wonder what will happen next! awesome update Reeha, was hoping for such a twist!

Originally posted by: ashred12

wow...so much happenings !!! i had a feeling d grandson is yash as i started reading d chapter...awesome...uh oh bechari J, how will she come clean to yash ?!

nice update reeha,