𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐀𝐀 : 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮

Chapter - 9

DAY BEFORE ENGAGEMENT PREPARATIONS

In the serene ambiance of the Jodhpur palace courtyard, the morning began with the delightful exchange of familial anecdotes and gossip, resonating amidst the majestic walls adorned with ancient tales. As the sun ascended, casting a golden hue upon the royal estate, the family members gradually retreated into the opulent embrace of the palace's grandeur.

Ekanksh, possessing an air of quiet sophistication, navigated through the corridors with purposeful strides, his presence commanding attention. Upon reaching his quarters, he indulged in a refreshing bath, the cool waters soothing his senses. Emerging from his ablutions, he adorned himself in a sleek ensemble of a black shirt and trousers, accentuating his chiseled physique and defining his magnetic allure.

Two hours elapsed, and Ekanksh descended the grand staircase, exuding an aura of effortless elegance. However, his composed demeanor faltered as he observed the familial gathering, noticing the absence of Vamika, his gaze sweeping the crowd in search of her. With a measured tone, he inquired about her whereabouts, his concern veiled beneath a veneer of stoicism.

The synchronized response from his siblings revealed Vamika's predicament—she had sustained an injury to her foot and was grappling with the discomfort of her menstrual cycle, opting to remain within the confines of the palace's sanctuary. Ekanksh's countenance betrayed his apprehension, a subtle furrow creasing his brow as he absorbed the news.

Acknowledging Vamika's plight, Ekanksh's demeanor softened, his protective instincts surfacing as he contemplated her well-being. With a nod of understanding, he acquiesced to the altered plans, his thoughts drifting to the safety and comfort of his cherished Jaan .

With a collective farewell, the families embarked on their excursion to shopping, leaving behind the resplendent halls of the palace, their departure marking the onset of a journey intertwined with camaraderie and shared experiences, while Ekanksh remained, his thoughts lingering on Vamika's welfare amidst the tranquility of the palace grounds.
__________________________________AT VAMIKA'S ROOM

As the ornate gates of the palace swung closed behind the departing families, Ekanksh's heart weighed heavy with lingering concern for Vamika. With determined resolve, he traversed the familiar corridors, his strides purposeful as he made his way to her chamber, their sanctuary filled with memories both cherished and bittersweet.

With a gentle tap, Ekanksh announced his presence before pushing open the door to Vamika's quarters, his heart racing with anticipation and worry. Yet, what he beheld within left him momentarily stunned—a tableau of vulnerability and surprise that shattered the tranquility of the room.

There, amidst the soft glow of candlelight, stood Vamika, her delicate frame swathed in silken robes, her eyes widened in shock as Ekanksh's gaze met hers with equal astonishment. In that fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still as they stood locked in a silent exchange, emotions swirling beneath the surface like the currents of a hidden river.

Ekanksh's heart constricted with concern as he took in the sight of Vamika, her graceful form marred by the telltale signs of distress—a slight wince of pain as she shifted her weight, a furrow of worry marring her brow. Without hesitation, he crossed the threshold into her domain, his steps tentative yet determined as he closed the distance between them.

"Vamika, what happened?" Ekanksh's voice, laced with genuine concern, broke the silence of the room, his eyes searching hers for answers. Yet, even as he spoke, a pang of uncertainty gnawed at his heart, the unspoken tension between them casting a shadow over their reunion.

Vamika, her gaze flickering with a mixture of surprise and apprehension, struggled to find the words to explain the events that had led to her current predicament. Her attempts at composure faltered in the face of Ekanksh's unwavering scrutiny, her vulnerability laid bare before him like an open wound.