Chapter 73:
Draupadi's Devotion
As the Pandavas rested under the shade of the tree, a lingering question hung in the air. Yudhishthira, always the most composed, finally asked what they were all thinking. “Draupadi,” he began carefully, “if we desire another child, would you really give us one?”
Draupadi, already feeling the warmth of their playful teasing, blushed deeply. She busied herself, adjusting their jewelry, fixing their angavastras, and smoothing down their hair to distract from her embarrassment. Still, her affection showed in every touch. Finally, she nodded shyly, a soft smile on her lips, acknowledging her willingness to fulfill their wishes.
The Pandavas couldn't help but tease her more. Bhima grinned mischievously. “Not many wives would be so understanding of their husband’s desires. They usually seek only their own comfort, ignoring what we need. But Draupadi... you're different. You’re willing to give us happiness without hesitation. You’re perfect for us.”
Draupadi, hearing their words, felt her heart swell with love. As she reached Arjuna, fixing a stray lock of his hair, she leaned in close and whispered in his ear, “I can give you all five of myself fully, if that’s what you want.”
Arjuna's eyes widened in surprise and delight. He couldn’t wait to share this with his brothers. “She said she’s fully ours,” he whispered excitedly to the others, his voice barely containing his joy.
When Draupadi moved to Nakula, she found herself suddenly pulled into his lap. The folds of her lehenga spread out over each of the Pandavas, making them all feel connected. Nakula looked into her eyes, still reeling from Arjuna’s revelation. Draupadi, sensing his eagerness, leaned in and whispered softly, “I am all five of yours, fully. I will never disappoint my husbands, whether as your wife, your queen, or your warrior.”
Nakula beamed with pride and repeated her words to the others. They exchanged knowing glances, deeply touched by her devotion.
But Draupadi wasn’t one to dwell too long in sentiment. Hearing the impatient neigh of the horses, she gracefully stood up, leaving the Pandavas still wrapped in their thoughts. She made her way over to the animals, tending to them as diligently as she did her family. Even as the sun beat down, Draupadi's presence was a cool breeze of love and care, refreshing everything around her.
The Pandavas watched her with admiration, silently vowing to honor her love and dedication for as long as they lived.
