Empire of Ash and Silk

Chapter 18

Chapter 18: Arrivals and Hidden Hopes

The palace hummed with activity as the long-awaited guests from Maharashtra arrived. The Peshwa, his wife, and their daughters were welcomed with great reverence. Anaya stood beside Aarav and her father at the entrance, watching as Laxmi descended from the palanquin, her gaze meeting Aarav's briefly before a shy smile touched her lips. Beside her stood her younger sister, a girl of about twelve, bright-eyed and curious, taking in the grandeur of the palace.

The Raja stepped forward to greet the Peshwa with a warm embrace. "It is a pleasure to have you in our home again, old friend," he said, his tone full of respect.

The Peshwa inclined his head with a respectful nod. "The pleasure is ours, Raja Saheb. Your hospitality is unmatched."

Laxmi's mother exchanged kind words with Anaya's father as well, expressing her joy at seeing their children grown. "Your Anaya is now a young woman of grace and beauty," she remarked with a warm smile. "And I hear we have much to discuss regarding our children's futures."

A knowing look passed between the adults, and Anaya caught a brief exchange between her father and the Peshwa, one that hinted at the discussions to come.

Once the formalities were complete, Anaya, Aarav, and Laxmi moved away from the adults, their steps taking them toward the gardens where they could speak more freely. Laxmi's younger sister tagged along, her curious eyes darting around in awe.

As they walked, Aarav cast a fond look at Laxmi, his voice light but affectionate. "How was the journey here, Laxmi? I trust you weren't too troubled?"

Laxmi smiled, adjusting her veil modestly. "The journey was long but pleasant. And now, here, it feels as though we never left."

Anaya watched the subtle way Aarav's gaze softened as he looked at Laxmi, and she couldn't help but smile herself. She nudged him playfully. "It seems my brother has turned quite the poet."

Aarav chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't start with me, Anaya. Besides, it's your birthday coming up, so you should be the one preparing for a little poetry and flattery."

Laxmi's eyes sparkled. "Yes, Anaya! I can't wait to see you in all your royal splendor. Are you excited for the celebration?"

Anaya shrugged, laughing. "Perhaps, but the idea of all those eyes on me is enough to make me wish for just a simple gathering with friends."

They shared a laugh, but the laughter was cut short when Laxmi's younger sister, who had been quietly observing, blurted, "Are you going to marry my sister, Aarav Bhaiya?"

The trio froze, glancing at one another in surprise before Aarav cleared his throat, looking slightly flustered. "That... well, let's just say there are discussions to be had," he managed, giving her a reassuring smile.

Anaya and Laxmi exchanged an amused glance before Anaya gently led Laxmi's sister along. "Come along, we'll explore the palace later. For now, let's let Aarav and Laxmi catch up."

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, Aarav and Laxmi found a secluded corner of the garden, where they sat beneath a flowering tree, enjoying a rare moment of privacy. Aarav reached for her hand, his voice soft and sincere. "I still can't believe this is all happening, that we may finally have the chance to be together openly."

Laxmi's fingers intertwined with his as she gave a quiet nod. "It feels like a dream, Aarav. I never thought our families would agree, or that fate would be kind enough to give us this chance."

Aarav lifted her hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to her fingers. "I promise to always make you happy, Laxmi. This is only the beginning."

Laxmi looked down shyly, a smile tugging at her lips. "And I promise to stand by you, always."

They sat in comfortable silence, savoring the peace of the garden and the knowledge that they were no longer bound by secrecy.

Meanwhile, Anaya found herself in her chambers with Mira, who watched her with a curious, knowing smile. Mira had been quiet for some time, observing Anaya's every move before finally speaking up.

"So," Mira began, drawing out the word with a mischievous look, "are you going to tell me about this Mughal prince who's stolen your heart?"

Anaya's cheeks reddened as she looked away, busying herself with the flowers on her table. "There's nothing to tell, Mira. We're friends, nothing more."

Mira laughed, shaking her head. "Oh please, Anaya. I know you. And I saw the way you hid that letter the other day. It's obvious there's something between you two."

Anaya's face softened, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Even if there is... it would never be allowed. I am a princess of Bengal, and he... he is a Mughal. Our families are only just starting to trust one another."

Mira moved closer, placing a hand on Anaya's shoulder. "But you deserve happiness too. And maybe, just maybe, your father would understand... someday."

Anaya gave a wistful smile, her mind filled with thoughts of Zahir. "Perhaps," she whispered, "but for now, it must remain a dream."