Tales Of The Heart

(26)

Shahzaib was in his study, immersed in letters and matters of court, his brows furrowed in concentration. Though the time for supper was near, he made no move to pause his work. He knew Inaya would bring his dinner to the study, aware of how busy he had been since morning.

The thought of her always brought a calmness to him, a rescue from the exhausting demands of his duties. He had not spent much time with her lately, the particular thought did not leave his mind. She was his solace amidst the chaos, the source of his strength.

Despite the circumstances with his marriage to Inaya, his parents had recently stopped pestering him about Princess Anam. Instead, they insist him to join them for supper, trying to reconnect like in the past.

He couldn't bring himself to refuse them, knowing they were making an effort to rebuild their bond as he loved his parents dearly. The situation was messy, but Shahzaib was determined to keep his promise to Inaya, no matter what.

A knock on the door broke his concentration. He looked up as Zaid entered.

"My prince, Princess Anam is asking for an audience", Zaid announced, his tone respectful yet cautious.

Shahzaib's face darkened slightly. The memory of Anam's previous attempt to create a misunderstanding between him and Inaya still lingered in his mind. He had forgiven her, understanding her desperation, but he didn't forget. He couldn't afford to let his guard down around her again.

"Why-",
Before Shahzaib could finish, the door swung open and Princess Anam entered with a wide grin, her eyes sparkling with determination.

"My prince", she greeted, her voice sweet and confident as she approached him.

Shahzaib's expression remained firm.
"I was in the middle of something, Princess Anam", he stated, not hiding his displeasure. However, Anam seemed unaffected.

"I apologize, my prince, but I shall not take much of your time", she said, her voice laced with hope.
Shahzaib sighed, nodding reluctantly.
"What is it?", he asked, his tone even.

Anam gestured for her attendant to step forward, revealing a covered tray.
"I tried to cook kunafa for you, my prince. I heard you have a fondness for sweets", she said, her cheeks flushing with a pink hue.

Shahzaib raised an eyebrow at the gesture. He knew what she was doing, trying to earn his favor. She had made it clear that she wouldn't give up easily.

"I haven't had my supper", he replied, unsure how to politely decline without being too harsh.
"Just one bite, my prince. I have been trying to master this dish for days. Please, I insist", Anam pressed more, her tone almost pleading.

Shahzaib hesitated but then sighed.
"Alright", he agreed, motioning for Zaid to take the tray. Zaid reluctantly, did as he was told, placing the tray in front of Shahzaib before uncovering it.

The aroma of the freshly made kunafa filled the room, and Shahzaib couldn't help but acknowledge the effort.
"It looks delicious", he muttered, taking a small bite. The taste was exquisite and unknowingly he moaned in appreciation. His sweet tooth always betrayed him at moments like this.

"It tastes perfect, Princess. Thank you for taking the initiative to cook something I love, but you shouldn't tire yourself", he said, taking another, larger bite, his hunger getting the better of him.

Anam blushed at the compliment, she smiled shyly and satisfied with the response.
"It was my honor, my prince", she replied, her eyes shining with affection as she watched him eat.

The door to the study pushed open softly. Shahzaib didn't need to look up to know who it was, only Inaya had the privilege of entering his study unannounced. She was his heart, and he had made it clear that she was always welcomed.