The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton

As Dazzling As A Peacock

The torchlight danced across the marble pillars of the grand ballroom as Devika and Suryadev made their entrance, arm in arm. All eyes turned to the dazzling couple, a hush rippling through the crowd.

"Quite the audience we've drawn," Suryadev murmured, his breath warm against Devika's ear. She suppressed a delightful shiver, retaining her poise.

"They're simply jealous of the vision before them," Devika replied lightly, granting him a coy smile. How easy it was to get lost in those dark eyes, twinkling with mirth.

As they descended the stairs, Suryadev's hand rested intimately on the small of her back, sending tingles across her skin. She leaned into him ever so slightly, playing the part of the besotted companion.

"Tell me, my dear, does my outfit please you?" Suryadev gestured to his embroidered sherwani with exaggerated flair. "I dressed especially for the occasion."

Devika allowed her gaze to linger ppreciatively over him. "As dazzling as the peacock who inspired it," she quipped, delighting in their verbal sparring.

He clicked his tongue in mock offense. "Such cheek! I've half a mind to toss you into the fountains for your impudence."

"You wouldn't dare!" Her eyes flashed with challenge.

Suryadev leaned in, his breath hot against her neck.

"Wouldn't I?" he purred dangerously.

A thrill raced through Devika at his proximity.

How she wished to capture his lips in that moment, propriety be damned! But the eyes of the court were upon them, and this intoxicating dance was but a performance.

With effort, she pulled back, a teasing lilt in her voice. "You are full of surprises, my dear Raja."

Taking her hand, Suryadev guided her into the glittering throng. The music swelled around them as they exchanged smiles brimming with promise. For in this moment, they belonged only to each other.