The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton

A Dangerous Game

Rajkumar Aadhir watched his sister and the Maharaja intently as they danced, his sharp eyes missing nothing. Though their movements appeared effortless, he could see the undercurrent of tension in their expressions, the flashes of something more simmering beneath the veneer of propriety.

His jaw tightened, hands clenching into fists at his sides. How dare Suryadev toy with Devika's affections, putting her reputation at risk for his own amusement? Did he not realize the damage he could do by encouraging her feelings, only to discard her when it no longer suited him?

Aadhir longed to intervene, to put an end to this folly before Devika's heart was irrevocably lost. But he knew his sister's fiery spirit all too well. Any attempt to restrain her would only drive her further into Suryadev's arms.

No, he needed a more subtle approach.

As the dance ended, Aadhir made his way through the crowd to where Janaki stood observing the couple, a knowing smile playing about her lips.

"Raja Mata," he murmured respectfully as he reached her side. "Might I have a word?"

Janaki turned, one sculpted brow raised in surprise. "Of course, Rajkumar. How can I be of service?"

Glancing around, Aadhir drew her toward a secluded alcove. "I must speak frankly. I know you've noticed the...connection...between my sister and Suryadev."

Janaki nodded, eyes glinting with understanding. "I have. And I take it you disapprove?"

"I only wish to protect Devika's interests." Aadhir met her gaze steadily. "If Suryadev trifles with her affections..."

"You needn't explain further." Janaki placed a hand on his arm. "Rest assured, I'll keep a close eye on them. No lasting harm will come to the Rajkumari under my watch."

Relief swept through Aadhir. With Janaki's aid, perhaps this entanglement could be discreetly managed.

"You have my deepest gratitude, Raja Mata," he said fervently.

"What are allies for?" Janaki gave his arm an affectionate pat. "Now, let us hope Suryadev proves worthy of your sister's regard."

Aadhir nodded, taking comfort in their shared purpose. For Devika's sake, he could only pray it would be enough.

****

As the music swelled, Suryadev pulled Devika close, their bodies swaying in perfect sync. 

Gone was the hesitancy, the restraint - now their every movement spoke of raw passion scarcely leashed. Devika's pulse raced wildly where his hand gripped her waist. His eyes seared into hers, dark with longing, their usual aloofness burned away.

"Rajkumari," he murmured, his voice a low caress. "Must you tempt me so?"

A teasing light entered her eyes. "I don't recall hearing any objections, Maharaj."

"Minx." The word was rough, desperate. His fingers tightened at her waist. "You play a dangerous game."

"Do I?" She arched a delicate brow. "Strange, I was under the impression we were merely dancing."

A wry smile touched his lips. "If this is dancing, I shudder to think what else you might attempt."

Devika laughed throatily, a rich, honeyed sound. "Why, Maharaj. Such scandalous imaginings." She leaned in, lips nearly brushing his ear. "I'd tread carefully if I were you. Some games are best left unplayed."

With that she pulled back, eyes dancing, even as his smoldered. The dance ended, the hall erupting in applause, yet still they lingered, gazes locked, the air simmering between them.

At last Suryadev stepped back, sketched a brief bow. "You give me much to think on, Rajkumari," he murmured.

"I certainly hope so." Devika's smile held a hint of triumph.

As Suryadev walked away, she watched him, pulse racing. This was a game she had no intention of losing. Not when the stakes were so thrillingly high.