Chapter 8

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“Bhai-sa, Bhabhi-sa!” Tanmay’s voice rang out as he strolled into the hall behind us

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“Bhai-sa, Bhabhi-sa!” Tanmay’s voice rang out as he strolled into the hall behind us.

Well, damn, did I already forget I was supposed to walk behind him? Rolling my eyes at myself, I let him pass and adjusted my gown as I moved behind, making sure it flowed just right. The walk was easy in this dress, and for once, the bun keeping my hair in place was doing its job—no irritating strands in my face tonight.

We greeted the family with the usual silent nod, the royal protocol demanding we hold back on words.

“I think you two are making fast friends,” Advaita said with a warm smile, her arm looped around Advik’s.

Advik—Rudransh’s older brother. It struck me again; wasn’t he the rightful heir? Shouldn’t he be the one with the crown? But then, why should I care?

Advik acknowledged us with a polite smile, and Tanmay, his eyes gleaming, replied “Oh, we definitely are!”

“Where’s Karthika?” Ekansh’s voice broke into the conversation,

“She’s already left with IPS Vidhaan and the kids for the venue. We waited for you two so we could go together,” Advik answered, adjusting his suit, looking every bit the dignified elder brother.

“And Ansh Bhai?” Tanmay asked, looking a bit lost.

“He’s outside on some call. Now, shall we?” Advik said, turning toward the main gate. We fell in line, following his lead.

Then, I saw him. Damn it—why is it that no matter where we are, my gaze just gravitates straight to him? There he was, in a crisp Ralph Lauren shirt that clung to him… in all the right ways. I can’t even think of a “respectable” word for how he looked, so let’s leave it at that.

We gave him the customary nod, but he didn’t even spare us a glance. Just walked right past without a second look. Oh, so that's how it is? What a—

Before I could finish the thought, we were ushered into the SUV the government provided, with the others climbing into their own cars. We trailed them to the venue, a grand spot near the palace. But really, what are we even doing here at this fancy party? What’s the point of all this?

As everyone filed inside, Sameer and I lingered for a moment. That’s when we spotted Vidhaan himself.

Only tonight, he looked nothing like the stone-faced, stormy figure we’d seen before. Instead, he seemed relaxed, almost… charming?

“Alright, what’s up with Mr. Grumpy? Why is he so different around royalties.” I muttered under my breath, nudging Sameer.

Sameer chuckled, shaking his head. “Maybe. But I’d put money on that side being temporary.”

"The days I’ve spent here and gotten to know him… I’m with you," I said with a knowing nod.

I exhaled, crossing my arms as I leaned closer.

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