The Heir and the Humble

Childish Devraj

As the night progressed, the banquet hall emptied, leaving behind a trail of laughter, clinking glasses, and unfinished conversations. Devraj, weary but exhilarated, made his way back to his chambers. He was eager to see Anika, to share the experiences of the evening.

As he ascended the stairs, he encountered Yuvraj, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, how did it go, Your Majesty?" Yuvraj teased.

Devraj couldn't help but smile. "You'll find out soon enough," he replied, a hint of challenge in his voice.

Yuvraj chuckled. "I'm looking forward to it," he said. "But for now, let me enjoy my victory."

Devraj raised an eyebrow. "Victory?" he questioned.

Yuvraj grinned. "I've managed to secure a trade deal with the kingdom of Eldoria," he boasted. "It's a win-win situation for both sides."

Devraj congratulated him, his admiration for his brother growing. "You're a natural diplomat," he said.

Yuvraj bowed dramatically. "At your service, Your Majesty," he replied, his voice filled with mock seriousness.

Devraj excused himself. He needed to see Anika, to find solace in her presence. As he ascended the stairs to his room by avoiding Yuvraj, who was leaning against the wall, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Taking a break from the royal duties, brother?" Yuvraj teased, a playful grin on his face.

Devraj rolled his eyes. "Very funny," he replied, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I need to see Anika."

Yuvraj nodded, his expression turning serious. "Take your time," he said. "I'll hold the fort."

Devraj found Anika in his room, her presence a beacon of comfort amidst the chaos of the coronation. He pulled her into a warm embrace, the stress of the day melting away in the safety of her arms.

"I needed this," he confessed, his voice filled with gratitude.

Anika squeezed him tighter, her heart filled with love. "I know," she replied, her voice soft. "You've been working tirelessly."

A comfortable silence settled between them, the only sound the gentle ticking of the clock. Then, Anika broke the silence. "I should go," she said, her voice filled with reluctance. "Father must be waiting for me."

Devraj's heart sank. He wanted to spend more time with her, to savor these precious moments. "Please stay," he pleaded, his voice laced with desperation. "Just for a little while longer."

Anika hesitated, her eyes filled with concern. She knew he was exhausted, but she also knew her responsibilities. "I can't," she replied, her voice gentle. "You know right, it's not acceptable before marriage. But i still choose to be by your side on your big days. Besides, it's high time you have to understand from my side"

Despite her refusal, a playful glint appeared in Devraj's eyes. He threw himself on the bed, his arms and legs outstretched, acting like a spoiled child. "Why are you scolding me?" he whined. "I've had a long day. I need pampering."

Anika couldn't help but chuckle at his childish behavior. She sat on the bed, ruffling his hair affectionately and kissed his forehead.

Anika ran her fingers through Devraj's hair, the gentle touch a soothing balm to his frayed nerves. Leaning down, she kissed his forehead, her lips lingering for a moment.

Devraj felt a wave of relaxation wash over him. The stress of the coronation, the weight of the kingdom, seemed to dissipate in that brief moment of intimacy. He took her hand in his, his fingers tracing the delicate lines of her palm.

"Please stay," he pleaded softly, his voice filled with a mixture of desire and desperation.

Anika's heart melted at his vulnerability. She knew how much he wanted her to stay, but she also knew her responsibilities. "We can't go back to that topic, Devraj garu," she said firmly, her voice laced with love. "I can't disappoint you, but I also can't disappoint my father."

Devraj understood her predicament. He knew that family ties were important to her. With a heavy heart, he let go of her hand. "I understand," he said, his voice barely a whisper.

Anika squeezed his hand one last time before turning to leave. As she walked towards the door, she turned around, her eyes filled with love and concern. "Take care of yourself," she said, her voice soft.

Devraj nodded, a silent promise passing between them. As she closed the door behind her, he was left alone with his thoughts.