ENTANGLED RELATION

Part 32

The sun had just begun to rise, casting a golden glow over the palace. The serene morning air was filled with the chirping of birds and the distant sounds of the palace coming to life. Shathanu, unable to sleep, decided to take a stroll through the corridors. Her mind was still occupied with the conversation she had had with Subhadra the previous day. It had left a profound impact on her, and she felt a new sense of clarity about her feelings and relationships.

As she walked past Uttara's chambers, she heard hushed voices. Curious, she stopped and listened. Peering through the slightly open door, she saw Uttara and her maid deep in conversation.

"We need to make sure Vatsala slips and falls today," Uttara was saying, a cruel edge to her voice. "The oil should be spilled just as she is about to enter the dining room."

The maid nodded obediently. "Yes, my lady. It will be done."

Shathanu's heart pounded in her chest. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. A sense of urgency washed over her as she realized she needed to act quickly to protect Vatsala. She moved away from the door and hurried toward Vatsala's chambers, hoping she wasn't too late.

She reached Vatsala's room just as Vatsala, now showing a small baby bump, was preparing to leave for the dining room. Shathanu intercepted her, her expression tense but determined.

"Vatsala, wait!" she called out, causing Vatsala to stop and look at her in surprise.

"Shathanu? What is it?" Vatsala asked, noticing the urgency in her tone.

"Just follow me and trust me," Shathanu said, taking Vatsala's hand. "It's not safe to go that way."

Confused but sensing the seriousness of the situation, Vatsala nodded and allowed Shathanu to lead her. As they walked, Shathanu kept a watchful eye on their surroundings, ensuring they avoided the planned trap.

When they reached the dining room safely, Vatsala turned to Shathanu, gratitude evident in her eyes. "Thank you, Shathanu. You saved me and my baby. But what was that about?"

Shathanu gave her a reassuring smile. "Just be careful, Vatsala. It's important to stay safe, especially now."

Vatsala's eyes widened in surprise but she didn't press further, trusting Shathanu's judgment. She instinctively placed a protective hand over her small baby bump. "Thank you, Shathanu. I don't know what I would have done without you."

Shathanu smiled gently. "Just be careful from now on. And if you need help, you can always count on me."

Vatsala's expression softened, and she reached out to take Shathanu's hand. "Thank you. That means a lot to me."

With Shathanu's support, Vatsala walked confidently into the dining room. The two women shared a bond in that moment, one of trust and mutual respect. They knew they could rely on each other in the days to come.

As they entered the dining room, the rest of the family was already seated. Arjun and Subhadra looked up, surprised but pleased to see Shathanu and Vatsala together. The twins, Abhimanyu and Abhinaya, also noticed the new camaraderie between them, their earlier jealousy giving way to curiosity and acceptance.

Vatsala and Shathanu exchanged a knowing glance before sitting down. The family gathered around the table, the atmosphere filled with warmth and unity. As they shared their meal, the bonds between them grew stronger, promising a future where they would face challenges together, with love and support guiding their way.

After breakfast, Shathanu walked with Vatsala to her chambers. "Be careful, Vatsala," she advised. "If you ever feel uneasy or sense something amiss, don't hesitate to call for help."