Padmaja fidgeted with the end of her sari, trying to calm the butterflies in her stomach. Across the hall, she caught a glimpse of Rajkumar Yashveer, regaling a group of guests with one of his adventuresome tales.
Oh, how she wished to be the focus of those twinkling emerald eyes! To have him speak to her with such enthusiasm and charm! But alas, Yashveer saw her only as a demure little sister, not someone who set his heart aflutter.
Padmaja sighed, lowering her gaze. Perhaps she was meant to admire him from afar, like the moon pining for the radiant sun.
Just then, a strong arm wrapped around her shoulders. "Cheer up, Padmaja!" Rajkumar Aadhir said jovially. "No need for long faces at a celebration."
Padmaja managed a small smile. Dear dependable Aadhir, always trying to lift her spirits.
"I'm sure many a hopeful suitor will be lining up to ask for your hand," Aadhir continued. "No need to pine after my reckless brother."
Padmaja's cheeks flushed at his perceptiveness. Was her affection for Yashveer so obvious?
"Now come, let us sample these sweets before Minnal eats them all," Aadhir added with a wink.
Despite herself, Padmaja laughed. Trust her best friend's brother to know just how to make her feel better.
Linking her arm through his, she let him lead her to the dessert table, spirits lifted.
YOU ARE READING
The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton
Ficción históricaA story as captivating as any inspired by the scandalous affairs of Bridgerton. The Rajmata faces a challenge: securing a Maharani for the enigmatic Maharaja Suryadev. Bazaars' and temples' gossips of Vijayanagara Empire buzz with speculation. The h...
