Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha~ Short Stories Collection

3

Author's POV

7 YEARS AGO 

The day he returned was etched in her memory. Ishank, now 28, had grown into a handsome, confident man. His presence filled the palace with an energy that made her heart race. When she first saw him after all those years, dressed in a casual white shirt and jeans, his hair slightly tousled from the journey, Keisha felt a rush of emotions. She had always admired him, but now, those feelings had blossomed into love.

It wasn't long before Keisha decided to confess her feelings. One evening, after a formal dinner with their families, she found him alone in the garden. The moonlight bathed the space in a soft glow, and the sound of crickets filled the silence between them. Keisha, dressed in a simple pastel saree, took a deep breath and approached him, her heart pounding.

"Ishank, can we talk?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.

He turned to her, surprised by the seriousness in her tone. "Of course, Isha. What's on your mind?" He had always called her Isha, a nickname that made her feel special.

Keisha looked down at her hands, gathering her courage. "Ishank, ever since you left, I've felt this emptiness inside me. I missed you more than words can explain. And now that you're back, I can't keep these feelings to myself anymore."

Ishank's eyes softened, and he stepped closer, sensing the gravity of her words.

Ishank didn't say a word; instead, he closed the distance between them, his gaze locked onto hers. Slowly, he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a gentle, almost hesitant kiss. Keisha's breath caught, her heart pounding in her chest as she responded, her arms wrapping around his neck, pulling him closer. The kiss was tender yet filled with all the emotions they had kept hidden for years. It was a promise, a confession, and a beginning all at once.

When they finally pulled apart, Ishank rested his forehead against hers, his breath slightly ragged. "Isha," he whispered, his voice husky with emotion, "I've waited so long to do that."

Keisha's eyes fluttered open, meeting his warm gaze. "Ishank, I—"

"Shh," he interrupted softly, placing a finger on her lips. "You don't need to say anything more. I am here for you forever and always."

From that moment, their relationship changed. What had once been a close bond between childhood friends blossomed into a deep, unspoken love that only grew stronger over time. For the next seven years, Ishank and Keisha navigated the complex world of royalty together. 

Ishank stood by her side, understanding the weight of her responsibilities, the pressure of tradition, and the expectations placed on her as the future queen. He admired her strength, her dedication, and the way she carried the burden of her crown with grace.

Their love was tested by time and duty, but it never wavered. They had grown together, supporting each other through every challenge. 

Even while engaged to Ishank, Keisha found herself balancing the demands of her royal duties with her growing affection for him. As the Crown Princess, she had numerous responsibilities—attending state functions, overseeing charitable projects, and meeting with advisors and ministers. Despite her busy schedule, Keisha managed to integrate her personal life with her professional obligations seamlessly.

Ishank, known for his cold and emotionless demeanor to the outside world, was somewhat different when it came to Keisha. He was supportive, though his affection was often shown through actions rather than words. He made sure to express his love, but his expressions were always subtle and meaningful.