The Maharaja And I : Inspired by Bridgerton

Try Not To Burn

The applause died down as the musicians began playing a new melody. Suryadev retreated to the edge of the hall, needing a moment to compose himself after the exhilarating dance with Devika.

As he sipped wine, his gaze roamed the room, taking note of the reactions around him. Whispers and furtive glances followed him, courtiers wondering at the obvious connection between the brooding Maharaj and the spirited Rajkumari.

"Quite a display," a voice murmured.

Suryadev turned to see Rajkumar Yashveer regarding him with amusement. "I don't know what you mean," Suryadev said evenly.

"Of course not." Yashveer's eyes glinted. "Though others seem to have drawn their own conclusions. Be careful, my friend. Emotions run hot at affairs like these."

Suryadev tensed. "It was only a dance."

"Was it?" Yashveer smiled knowingly. "Just take care you don't burn." With that he slipped away, leaving Suryadev frowning.

Across the hall, Devika laughed gaily at something her brother said. The sound cut through the din, and Suryadev couldn't stop his gaze from finding her. She was radiant, eyes shining as she spoke with her companions.

Looking up, she caught his gaze, mirth dancing in her eyes. Suryadev felt a jolt low in his stomach. This woman would be his undoing. With effort, he turned away, trying in vain to ignore the whispers that followed.

**

Suryadev strode toward the balcony, desperate for air. This was dangerous, letting emotions cloud his judgment. If he wasn't careful, everything could unravel.

Stepping outside, he took a deep breath, letting the night air cool his heated blood. He needed to remain focused, detached. This arrangement with Devika was only temporary, a means to an end.

The sound of laughter drifted out from the hall, and Suryadev pictured Devika, eyes flashing as she bantered with courtiers. Despite himself, he felt a tug of longing. Clenching his jaw, he tried to bury the unwelcome feelings. He could not forget who she was, an enemy masquerading as an ally.

"Escaping so soon, Your Highness?"

Suryadev turned to see Janaki regarding him knowingly, one brow arched. He inclined his head. "Rajmata. Just needing some air."

"I'm sure." Her keen gaze took in his tense posture. "Quite a lively affair, no? Though some seem to be enjoying it more than others."

Suryadev met her stare evenly. "It's been...eventful."

"Hm." Janaki smiled. "Well, you should return quickly. We wouldn't want people to get the wrong impression."

With that she glided back inside, leaving Suryadev frowning. That woman was too observant by half. With a sigh, he prepared to rejoin the festivities. He had a role to play, personal feelings be damned. Squaring his shoulders, he donned his mask once more and stepped inside.

****

Suryadev wove through the crowds, the sounds of the celebration enveloping him once more. His eyes scanned the hall, settling on Devika. 

She was dancing with another nobleman, though her gaze kept flicking towards Suryadev.

As the music swelled, Devika twirled, her skirts fanning out gracefully. The nobleman said something and she threw her head back, laughing. Suryadev felt an unexpected pang in his chest. He quickly looked away, grabbing a goblet of wine from a passing servant.

"Not enjoying the festivities, brother?"

Suryadev turned to see Yashveer grinning at him, eyes bright with mischief. "You look like you're attending a funeral, not a ball."

Despite himself, Suryadev's lips quirked. "Just tired. Though you seem to be faring better." His gaze slid past his brother to Padmaja hovering nearby, watching Yashveer shyly.

Yashveer followed his look and sighed. "She's determined, I'll give her that. But Padmaja is wasted on me."

"Perhaps you should give her a chance," Suryadev said mildly. "She might surprise you."

Yashveer looked skeptical. Before he could respond, Devika appeared at Suryadev's side.

"There you are," she purred, slipping her hand into the crook of his arm possessively. "I was beginning to think you'd abandoned me."

Suryadev met her challenging stare. "And miss your delightful company? Perish the thought."

As they traded verbal barbs, Suryadev was struck again by her quick wit and spark. She was a worthy opponent in this game of pretense. Dangerous thoughts indeed.