Chapter 71:
Resting Under the Tree
After a long day’s journey, the Pandavas and Draupadi found a shaded spot under a large tree. They decided to rest and refresh themselves. Draupadi, ever attentive, took it upon herself to care for everyone. She moved gracefully among them, kissing each of the Pandavas gently on the lips and handing them water to drink.
As she did so, the Pandavas couldn't resist the opportunity for more teasing. "You know, Draupadi," Bhima started with a chuckle, "your lips seem to have a magical touch. They could probably give us juice all on their own!"
Arjuna grinned, adding, "And it sounds like you’re planning to return to Kampalyam just to make sure we’re all properly ‘taken care of.’”
Draupadi, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and affection, smiled and shook her head. She leaned closer to Nakula and whispered softly into his ear, “If you wish, I’m ready to give you all another child.”
Nakula’s face turned bright red, and he looked up, his eyes wide with surprise. He turned to his brothers, his cheeks still burning. "Draupadi... she... she said she’s ready to give us another child if we want," he stammered.
The other Pandavas exchanged glances and started blushing as well, their earlier teasing giving way to a more serious contemplation. Sahadeva whispered to the others, "Looks like our playful teasing just got a lot more interesting."
Yudhishthira, trying to maintain his composure, smiled warmly at Draupadi. “You’ve certainly made your intentions clear, Draupadi. We’ll have to think about this.”
Draupadi, meanwhile, busied herself feeding and watering the horses, her movements calm and composed despite the flurry of emotions and teasing around her. She knew that her words had sparked a deeper conversation among them, but she also understood the importance of keeping things light and affectionate.
As she returned to the group, Nakula, still blushing, made an effort to look casual but couldn't hide his smile. The Pandavas, now more contemplative and amused, continued to whisper among themselves, their playful banter giving way to genuine affection and consideration.
