Beyond The Palace Walls| ONGOING

Chapter - 39

As Sarbajeet pulled into the driveway, the soft glow of the house's exterior lights welcomed them home. Agastya gazed at Meera, her peaceful slumber.

Not wanting to disturb her, Agastya carefully opened the door and slid out. He walked around to Meera's side, gently opening her door. Her head lolled, and he couldn't resist smiling.

With a tender touch, Agastya scooped Meera into his arms, cradling her in a bridal-style hold. She murmured softly, snuggling deeper into his chest.

Archana, flung open the door, her face alight with excitement. "Beta! Welcome home!"

Upon spotting Meera asleep in Agastya's arms, her expression softened. She whispered, "Oh, she's tired. Take her to your room, beta. I'll get everything ready for dinner."

Agastya nodded, smiling. "Thanks, Maa."

Archana stepped aside, allowing Agastya to pass. As he carried Meera upstairs, his mother's whispered words followed, "Uska khayal rakhna, Agastya. She's special."
(Take care of her, Agastya.)

Agastya's heart swelled with love and gratitude.

He gently pushed open his bedroom door and laid Meera on his bed. She stirred, snuggling into his pillow.

Agastya sat beside her, watching as she settled. His room, once a sanctuary, now felt complete with Meera by his side.

Meera's eyes fluttered open, and she smiled. "Your room?"

Agastya nodded. "My space, now ours."

Meera's gaze wandered, taking in the surroundings. "It feels...right."

Agastya's heart skipped a beat.

Agastya's voice whispered softly, "Sleep for a while or meet Maa?"

Meera stretched, yawning. "Meet Maa. I want to."

Agastya smiled, helping Meera sit up. "She's eager to see you."

Meera ran a hand through her hair, smoothing it. "Hum kaise lag rahe hai?"
(How do I look?)

Agastya's eyes roved over her face. "Beautiful."

Meera's cheeks flushed.

Agastya stood, offering his hand. "Aao, mere dil ke Rani se mile."
(Come, let's meet the queen of my heart)

Meera laughed, taking his hand.

As they descended to the ground floor, the aroma of dinner wafted through the air, mingling with the warmth of the Singh household.

Archana, hearing their footsteps, emerged from the kitchen, a bright smile on her face. "Meera beta, welcome back! Come, let's feed you. You must be starving."

Meera's eyes sparkled. "Shukriya, aunty"
(Thank you, Aunty.)

Archana enveloped Meera in a warm hug. "Call me Maa. We're family now."

Agastya's gaze swept the room, his eyes seeking the familiar faces of his family. "Where's everyone?" he asked his mother.

Archana, busy setting the table, replied, "Dada-Dadi have gone to the farmhouse for the weekend. Armaan is in his room, gaming, no doubt."

Agastya chuckled. "Typical."

Meera listened intently, absorbing the dynamics of Agastya's family.

"Smriti is in her room, resting," Archana added. "She's been working late nights on her project."

Agastya nodded, making a mental note to check on Smriti later.