The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton

Chiming Anklets

The rhythmic strains of the veena washed over Devika as she twirled across the marble floor, her silken sari fluttering around her like ripples across a moonlit pond. She was vaguely aware of the hundreds of eyes upon her, the courtiers and nobles watching with bated breath, but in that moment, all she saw was him.

Suryadev.

His piercing gaze met hers as he stepped towards her, the torchlight casting shadows across his chiseled features. She felt her breath hitch, an unwelcome heat rising in her cheeks. His large hand rested on the curve of her waist and she nearly stumbled, cursing herself for the skittishness he awoke in her.

No. She was a Rajkumari. She would not falter.

Lifting her chin, she fixed him with a coy smile even as her pulse raced wildly. "You seem distracted, Maharaja. Perhaps you require a respite from our dance?"

His eyes glinted with amusement, the corner of his mouth twitching upwards. "On the contrary. I find myself quite invigorated by your...movements."

The low timbre of his voice sent a delicious shiver down her spine. She bit the inside of her cheek, warring with the urge to melt into his embrace.

No, she could not surrender, not yet. This was but a game between them, however tempting its allure.

With renewed determination, she quickened her steps, her anklets chiming brightly as she led him through the intricate mudras. She was an enchantress bewitching her unsuspecting prey, luring him deeper under her spell...

Or was it she who was being ensnared?

anaki watched the pair from across the crowded ballroom, a knowing smile playing on her lips. Though their movements appeared effortless, she could see the undercurrent of tension thrumming between them.

Two souls entwined in a delicate dance of pretense and passion. Oh how she did enjoy a good intrigue.

Smoothly navigating through the sea of twirling guests, she approached the unsuspecting couple mid-swirl.

"Don't let me interrupt this vision of grace and poise," she said, her sharp gaze moving between them. "Though I must say Rajkumari, you seem rather flushed. The exertion, perhaps?"

Devika's eyes flashed, a retort on the tip of her tongue, but Suryadev spoke first.

"Raja Mata," he said with a slight bow. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"

"Oh I was simply curious to see what has Vijaynagar's most eligible Maharaja so thoroughly distracted," Janaki purred.

Suryadev's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. "The Rajkumari is an excellent dance partner. I was merely...admiring her skill."

"Is that all you were admiring?" Janaki asked innocently.

Devika bit back a smile as Suryadev struggled to respond. Perhaps there was fun to be had in this game after all.

"You know me, Raja Mata," Suryadev finally managed. "Ever the connoisseur of the arts."

"Of course. Though connoisseurs must take care where they direct their...appreciation." Janaki's knowing look pierced them both. "Enjoy the rest of the festivities!"

With that she glided away, leaving Devika and Suryadev staring after her, the weight of her veiled warning hanging in the air between them.