Rakshash Aur Rajkumari (The Devil And The Princess) 🔞✔

17•शुद्ध प्रेम

Rudraksha sat cross-legged on the plush couch, bathed in the warm morning light streaming through the windows. His laptop perched on his lap, the soft glow of the screen illuminating his intent expression. A steaming mug of coffee rested on the table beside him, wisps of aromatic vapor rising into the air.

In the quietude of the cozy living room, the only sounds were the distant chirping of birds and the occasional clatter of keys as Rudraksha typed fervently. His brow furrowed in concentration, deep in the midst of a determined search.

Rudraksha paused, his fingers hovering over the keyboard after typing in the search query. "How to help someone with Anxiety." The results filled his screen, offering a plethora of advice and strategies. His mind raced with thoughts of Ambika, her struggles, and the guidance from her psychologist that lingered in his memory.

One particular suggestion caught his eye: "Smile often when you are talking with them."

The concept seemed simple enough, yet Rudraksha knew it would be a challenge for him. He was accustomed to a more serious demeanor, his default expression often reflecting his introspective nature rather than exuding warmth.

Rudraksha looked up from his laptop as Ambika emerged from the bedroom, clad in an oversized trouser adorned with a cat print, paired with short pants that accentuated her long legs. Her usual smile and nervousness were absent, replaced by a nonchalant expression that seemed out of character.

The anklet on her ankle jingled softly with each step, harmonizing with the gentle clinking of her red chooda as she adjusted her hair. It was a sight that gave Rudraksha pause; Ambika's demeanor was a stark contrast to her usual bubbly self.

"Hey Ambika," Rudraksha greeted, his voice soft and laced with concern. "Are you alright?"

Ambika turned towards him, her gaze momentarily distant before focusing on him with a half-hearted smile. "Oh, hey Rudra," she replied, her tone lacking its usual warmth.

"You want some coffee?" Ambika asked, her voice tinged with a touch of weariness.

A small smile playing on his lips. "No, I'm good. Got my coffee right here," he replied, lifting his mug slightly in demonstration.

Ambika nodded slowly, her expression still serious. "Alright then. I'll make some milk for myself. Do we have any cereal?"

His smile widened, excitement flashing in his eyes. "Yes! Yes, I bought some chocos for you... Your favorite," Rudraksha exclaimed, setting his laptop aside with enthusiasm.

"Great! Thank you," Ambika said, her lips curling into a half-smile as she headed towards the kitchen.

He realized that Ambika's absence of smiles was not a sign of indifference or insensitivity but rather a reflection of her internal battles. The weight of her experiences had likely left her emotionally exhausted, unable to muster the outward expressions of joy or happiness.

"How can someone who went through something so harrowing act  normal?" Rudraksha wondered aloud, his voice tinged with concern.

As he sat in the quiet of the room, Rudraksha's heart went out to Ambika. He knew that healing from such deep wounds would take time and patience. More than ever, he was determined to be a source of unwavering support and understanding for her.

"I need to be patient and empathetic," Rudraksha resolved, a sense of determination settling within him.

Rudraksha's gaze shifted from Ambika to the laptop resting nearby, and a wry smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He marveled at the irony of Ambika's innocence, her unwavering belief in the facade he had carefully crafted.