ENTANGLED RELATION

Part 31

Shathanu, the beautiful and thoughtful daughter of Draupadi, sat alone in the palace gardens, her mind swirling with conflicting emotions. The vibrant flowers and lush greenery around her did little to soothe her troubled heart. She was lost in thought, pondering her feelings for Charumeedh. Was it love, or merely a fleeting attraction? She couldn't be sure.

As she sat there, Subhadra, who had been strolling nearby, noticed Shathanu's troubled expression. Despite the longstanding animosity between Draupadi and herself, Subhadra harbored no ill will toward Draupadi's children. She approached Shathanu with a gentle smile.

"Shathanu," Subhadra called softly, hoping not to startle her. "May I join you?"

Shathanu looked up, her eyes reflecting her inner turmoil. She hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "Of course, Rajvadhu."

Subhadra sat down beside her, maintaining a respectful distance. She tried to engage Shathanu in small talk, commenting on the beauty of the garden and the soothing sounds of the nearby fountain. But Shathanu remained distant, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.

After several attempts to engage her, Subhadra sighed softly and started to rise. "I understand if you need some time alone, Shathanu. I will leave you to your thoughts."

Just as Subhadra turned to leave, Shathanu spoke up, her voice tinged with hesitation. "Rajvadhu Subhadra, may I ask you something?"

Subhadra turned back, her heart warming at the address. "Of course, my dear. You can ask me anything."

Shathanu looked down at her hands, twisting a flower stem nervously. "How do you know if what you feel for someone is truly love, or just... attraction?"

Subhadra smiled gently and settled back down beside Shathanu. "That's a profound question, Shathanu. Love and attraction can often be confusing. Attraction is usually immediate and can be intense, but it tends to fade with time. Love, on the other hand, is deeper. It grows with time and is based on understanding, respect, and shared experiences."

Shathanu listened intently, her eyes searching Subhadra's face for wisdom. "But how can you tell the difference? How do you know if what you feel is real?"

Subhadra took a moment to gather her thoughts. "When you love someone, you care deeply about their well-being and happiness, even above your own. You are willing to make sacrifices and compromises for them. True love is about partnership and mutual support. It's not always easy, but it's enduring."

Shathanu's eyes filled with uncertainty. "I thought I loved Charumeedh, but now I'm not so sure. He loves Abhinaya, and I think... I think I was just drawn to him because of his kindness and charm. But deep down, I don't know if it's truly love."

Subhadra nodded understandingly. "It's good that you are questioning your feelings. It shows maturity. Charumeedh and Abhinaya have known each other since childhood. Their bond is strong and genuine. It's not because Abhinaya is my daughter, but because they have a connection that has grown over the years."

Shathanu sighed, a sense of relief washing over her. "I think you're right, Rajvadhu. I've been mistaking admiration and attraction for love. It's hard to accept, but it's the truth."

Subhadra reached out and gently touched Shathanu's hand. "It's okay to feel this way, Shathanu. Understanding your feelings is the first step towards finding true love. And remember, love can come in many forms. You are a wonderful person, and someone out there will love you for who you are."

Shathanu looked at Subhadra with newfound respect and warmth. "Thank you, Rajvadhu Subhadra. Your words mean a lot to me."

Subhadra smiled, feeling a maternal affection for Shathanu. "You can call me Choti Maa, if you'd like. I would be honored to have you as my daughter."