Devika let out a weary sigh as the last of the revelers took their leave. It had been an endless parade of simpering ladies and drunken noblemen, and her face ached from the effort of false smiles.
As she turned to go, a hand grasped her wrist.
She looked up into Suryadev's dark eyes, simmering with unspoken emotion. For a long moment they stood unspeaking, the air electric between them.
"Must you always vanish so abruptly?" Devika finally managed.
His mouth curved in a half-smile. "I've tarried longer than usual tonight."
"To what do I owe the honor?"
"I wished to see if you fared well after..." His voice trailed off.
Devika's breath caught at his unexpected concern. With great effort, she steadied her voice. "I am perfectly fine, Your Highness."
"Surya," he corrected gently. "When we are alone, I am only Surya."
A blush stained Devika's cheeks. She lowered her gaze.
"Tonight has been...trying. I confess I long for the peace of solitude."
Surya brushed his knuckles lightly over her heated cheek. "Then solitude you shall have."
With reluctance he released her hand and stepped back. But as she turned to go, his voice arrested her once more.
"Devika." Her name was a caress on his lips. "I hope you know...you need not face trials alone. I am here."
Emotion constricted her throat. Wordlessly she inclined her head, then slipped into the shadows. His words echoed through her mind as she made her way back to her chambers.
Could it be that the Maharaja cared for her? That behind his aloof facade beat the heart of a man who saw her, truly saw her?
She dared not hope...and yet hope bloomed unbidden in her heart
YOU ARE READING
The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton
Historical FictionA 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...
