The Only Heir

One for the Money, Two for the Show.

"I didn't expect it to be so crowded."

"Don't worry, our wing won't be so crowded," Ashwini said offering me a hand to pull me through the thong of people looking for their seats.

He had been punctual in coming to pick me up and honked outside the entrance when I was more than ten minutes late. In my defence, I couldn't figure out the appropriate thing to wear. Regardless, the light blue dress that I decided upon was a good choice because the weather was sweltering and mixed with the crowd I was getting rather suffocated. Another man in a simple check shirt, whom Ashwini introduced as his accountant had also tagged along although he didn't speak a word to me after politely introducing himself as Nishant.

Thankfully enough, we soon reached our wing which was well conditioned though open, giving us the best possible and clear view of the the tracks at the end of which the competitors already stood ready.

"Welcome to the Jaipur Royal Turf, Meera. It's quite a sight, isn't it? First time at the races, right?" Ashwini asked with a broad smile.

"Yeah, though I have to admit, I've never been a big fan of horses. They seem too unpredictable for my taste. But I figure races are a passion of yours," I said.

Ashwini nodded with a hint of amusement, "You could say that. It's a bit of a hobby of mine. There's something thrilling about the atmosphere, the anticipation."

"Thrilling, huh? I suppose it's not all about the horses, then. What's the trick to picking a winner?"

"You are quite smart for your age," he said, with raised brows and shine in his eyes that went away with a blink. "How did you know it's a betting ground?"

"First of all I'm thoroughly offended at your surprise at my intelligence." I said raising my finger up and then behind us, "And secondly, I saw people discretely trying to place a wager on our way here, except they weren't really, you know, discrete."

He chuckled and leaned in, "It's not as complicated as it seems. You just need to know what to look for. See those numbers on the board? They're the odds. They tell you how likely each horse is to win."

"Odds?" I asked, "Maths again? Thought I was on vacation."

"Yes, It's a bit like that. But don't worry, you don't need to be a math whiz. Just pick a horse that catches your eye or one with a name you like. Sometimes, beginner's luck can be quite surprising."

"That sounds fun. Which horse are you betting on?"

Glancing at the track, then turning back at me, he said "I have my eye on Silver Comet. Strong, fast, and a good track record. According to experts, he favours hard ground which is the condition of today's track. But don't let me influence you. Pick one that speaks to you."

"Hmm, I like the sound of Star Dancer," I said scanning the list. "It sounds magical."

"Star Dancer, huh? Not a bad choice for a first-timer. Sometimes the ones with the fanciest names do surprise us."

That and its odds were moderately good. Both the Esquire and the stead were young, they must have potential if they got here. And if by some unfortunate fate, they didn't win I can always say they'll do better next time.

"Alright, Star Dancer it is. This should be fun," I said clapping together my hands.

"It will be. Fun is what it's all about. Just remember to stay close, okay? Wouldn't want you to get lost in the crowd."

"Don't worry, It's not likely," I said waving towards the seats.

"Wait till the race starts."

Ashwini excused himself and left my side along with Nishant. when they came back Nishant was rapidly whispering something in Ashwini's ear but his words were clearly not given any heed to. one look from Ashwini and Nishant turned away and sat down.