Tales Of The Heart

(25)

Inaya made her way to the royal kitchen with her attendants. It had been a week since she married Shahzaib and moved into his quarters.

Although she had her own chambers, the prince rarely let her out of his sight, whenever he was in his quarters. He even asked her to accompany him when he was busy or in meetings with his generals for important matters, in his personal study.

It was clear as day that the prince was smitten with her, and the fact wasn't unknown to anyone.

Word spread like wildfire through the palace, and it didn't take long for news of their marriage to reach everyone. It hadn't been officially addressed in court yet, Inaya knew the day was near.

"Greetings, Your Highness, how can we help you?", the head cook asked as soon as she saw Inaya walking into the grand kitchen.
"May I use your kitchen for a while?", Inaya asked with a polite smile.

The request took everyone off guard, royalty never stepped inside the kitchen, ever. But then they remembered she wasn't from royalty or nobility, so perhaps this was natural for her.

But who was going to tell them the truth? Inaya was a pampered child. She had never even poured a glass of water for herself because she always had Eira to assist her. She might not be of noble birth, but she was from a wealthy family.

"Your Highness, you might not be aware, but the royal family doesn't step inside the kitchen, they give orders", the cook said, trying hard to be polite.

It was natural that every servant wanted a princess or someone of noble birth as their future empress. The fact that the prince was rebelling against his parents, going so far as to threaten never to marry anyone else, left a bitter impression of Inaya on everyone. No one knew her, but they were quick to judge.

"I am aware, but I wish to make a dish for my husband", Inaya replied, still smiling softly.
"You can tell us what you want. I cannot just let anyone use my kitchen", the cook replied, her tone now carrying a hint of irritation.

Inaya was taken aback by the sudden change in tone. She had never even met this woman, why was she acting so rude to her?

"Watch your tone, woman. You are talking to the Crowned Prince's spouse", Eira snapped angrily, drawing more attention to them, which Inaya didn't want.

"I am just stating facts. I need Her Majesty's permission to let anyone use the kitchen. It is a matter of safety", the cook reasoned, and Inaya's frown deepened.

"What are you trying to imply, woman? His Royal Highness is my husband", Inaya said sternly, not liking the insinuation that she might harm the prince.

"Who am I to imply anything, Your Highness? My hands are tied. You are to eat what is served by us unless you have the Empress's permission", the cook replied adamantly.

"Eira", Inaya softly stopped her loyal attendant, who was on the verge of causing a scene.
"It is needless. I must come back with Her Majesty's permission", she said, turning to leave.

With determined strides, she walked towards the Empress's quarters. It was humiliating to be doubted regarding her own husband's life, but she decided to abide by palace rules to avoid making her situation worse.

"May I see Her Majesty?", Inaya asked the guards stationed at the door.

"Allow me to ask, Your Highness", one of the guard replied respectfully before going inside. After a few moments, he returned and said,
"I apologize, but Her Majesty is in the middle of something. You may return in an hour, Your Highness",

"It is fine. I shall wait", Inaya replied softly before walking towards the gazebo in front of the quarters. She settled on a chair and waited patiently.