Royal Secrets (Shhhh)

Chapter 9. ~ I Am The Ruler ~

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"Ugh, my head," Samar groaned, pressing his hands to his temples. The ache from last night's drinking still clung to him, heavy and unrelenting.

"Good morning, Rana Sa," Abhinav said warmly, offering a mug of strong black coffee with a gentle smile.

Samar took it without a glance, sipping slowly. As the warmth slid down his throat, his eyes caught the fresh bandage wrapped around his hand. "Again," he muttered with a dry chuckle, taking another sip.

"Don't worry, Rana Sa. Everything's under control. It was just a small attack," Abhinav said, forcing confidence into his voice. But inside, he trembled. He alone knew the truth of last night-a wild, haunting scene he'd never imagined witnessing. The Samar before him now, calm and quiet, was a stranger compared to the storm of the night before.

Samar's gaze wandered the room, sharp and curious. "Are you sure it's all under control? Just a minor attack?" he asked, a playful edge to his voice as he smirked.

"Rana Sa, please don't worry. You were fine last night. Just rest easy," Abhinav lied again, his heart racing.

Samar raised an eyebrow, surprised. "I know what you must've done to fix things. Only you could tame me like that." He glanced around, marveling at the spotless room-everything in place, neat and orderly. How? His eyes drifted to the wall, clean and bare.

"Did I... do something to that wall last night?" he asked, squinting at it, a strange flicker in his expression.

Abhinav faltered, caught off guard, but quickly steadied himself. "No, Rana Sa, of course not. Why would you? It's just your mind playing tricks," he said smoothly, hiding his nerves.

"Yeah, maybe," Samar mumbled, letting it go. The night was a blur, lost to him.

Abhinav watched him, noting the tired lines on his face. "Rana Sa, if you're not feeling well, I can cancel your meetings and plans," he offered gently.

"No," Samar cut in, shaking his head. "It's just a headache-nothing new. Add two more things to my day instead. Tonight, I'll make a surprise visit to Bilariya village. Keep it secret-no one can know I'm coming. I want to catch those who disobey me. The money they get for education from the government? I won't let it fall into the wrong hands." His voice hardened with resolve, the ruler in him rising above the haze.

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For the next fifteen days, this routine carried on. As the Member of Parliament for Jaipur and Rajasthan's Education Minister, he knew his duties like the back of his hand. His dedication had made him a beloved figure, especially among the youth, who admired his unique way of working. Wherever he went, people noticed him, drawn to his quiet strength and tireless efforts.

"Raanaji, I'm certain you'll win the next election too," a villager said with a wide grin. "Look at the crowds that gather just to catch a glimpse of you! We're all so proud. In you, we see your grandfather's spirit. You'll be our next Chief Minister, mark my words." The man's voice brimmed with hope and admiration.

Raanaji gave a small, humble smile and bent down to touch the villager's feet, a gesture of deep respect that spoke louder than words.

Meanwhile, inside the palace, Dhara's eyes wandered restlessly. She was searching for Samar. She'd heard about him through the television or caught his name in the newspapers, but days had passed since he last stepped foot in the palace. Her gaze kept drifting to the dress he'd given her-a simple gift that now felt heavy with meaning. She clutched it gently, lost in thought.