I am Prince's pampered wife

Chapter 30

Mayank stood rooted to the spot, dazed as he observed Maira and Surya's easy rapport. Each laugh exchanged, every tender glance, stabbed his heart. How had she moved on so effortlessly? he thought. While I remain tethered to the past?

Reeta stood beside him, her eyes flitting between her husband and his ex-wife. Jealousy simmered beneath the surface as she noted the undeniable connection between Maira and Surya.

The contrast was almost too stark; Maira seemed to glow, her happiness blooming like a vibrant flower, while Reeta felt an engulfing sense of inadequacy. Why can't I have that? she mused, frustration boiling within her.

Mayank had often claimed to love Reeta, yet he had never cared enough to give her the simple gestures of affection that Surya so freely displayed, like massaging her shoulders—or even her feet. Reeta's thoughts were a tangled mess, her anger flaring as she compared their lives. How is it possible that after the bitter end of my story, Maira has found such joy?

"Look at her," Reeta blurted, unable to contain herself any longer. "Maira, it's been such a short time since the divorce, and you're already married? Is it because your husband is rich?" The words slipped out, a deliberate barb veiled under the guise of casual curiosity.

Before Maira could respond, Surya stepped in with a glint in his eyes. "Even if she's with me for the money," he said, his tone teasing yet firm, "I'm more than willing to give it to her. But there's only one condition—she has to take me. Otherwise, I'll always stick to her."

The collective gasp from the surrounding people felt almost palpable as they processed the unexpected boldness of the General. Is this really him? someone wondered, taken aback by the playful comment.

Maira's cheeks flushed at his unabashed admission, and she lightly hit his arm in playful reproach. How can he be so shameless? she thought, her embarrassment climbing.

"If I must, I will stick with you!" Surya insisted, deadpan, while Maira's embarrassment deepened. "You have to take me with you."

"Let's discuss this at home, please," Maira said, trying to deflect. But Surya's eyes were serious, and he craved her answer.

"Are you going to wash clothes for an entire week and clean while you think about it?" Maira retorted, her patience starting to wear thin. The moment the words left her lips, she immediately realized their ill-timing. Who am I to shout like this in public?

But Surya, undeterred, responded ,"I'll wash for even two weeks. Just answer me: will you leave?"

Finding her composure, Maira shot back, "No, never."

Surya's face lit up, as if he had just conquered a kingdom, a triumph shining in his expression.

The onlookers exchanged glances filled with mutual understanding. The General, revered and respected by many, was evidently taking orders from his wife. What a refreshing sight, someone mused. He isn't just a General here; he is truly her partner.

Reeta watched with astonishment. This wasn't the stoic General she had heard about. The image of him performing chores and perhaps even enduring a playful scolding from Maira was almost too much to bear.

Mayank experienced a similar shock. He had never seen Maira so assertive before. The transformation was astonishing; she was commanding a man who stood with authority, while appearing utterly docile in this personal sphere. He couldn't reconcile this with the woman who had once been so quiet and reserved.

As the dynamic unfolded before them, both Mayank and Reeta were forced to confront their own dissatisfaction with their lives. She has evolved into someone who is confident, authoritative, and unfazed by the past, Reeta realized with bitterness. Maira was now claiming her space, her identity—and she wasn't afraid to flaunt it in front of everyone.

Their shared glances turned into an unspoken acknowledgment of their own failures as they witnessed a woman flourishing right before their eyes. Maira had found not just love but respect and partnership.