The Unwanted Royal Marriage

53. Royal Couple Chronicles

Adhyay's pov

The next morning, sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Meera stirred in my arms, her face buried in my chest, and I couldn't help but marvel at the sight of her—peaceful, content, misiblinge blinked up at me groggily, a lazy smile forming on her lips. "Good morning," she whispered, her voice still husky from sleep.

"Good morning," I replied, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "I didn't want to wake you. You looked so peaceful."

She sat up slightly, stretching, and then turned her attention to me, her gaze soft but curious. "Adhyay... thank you for last night. For listening. For forgiving me. For letting me in again."

I reached out, taking her hand in mine. "There's nothing to thank me for, Meera. You were always a part of me. Losing you—it wasn't just painful, it was like losing a piece of myself. Now that you're back, I don't intend to let go."

She smiled at that, her fingers tracing idle patterns on my palm. "I'll hold you to that promise," she said teasingly, but her tone held a depth of seriousness that wasn't lost on me.

Before we could say more, a knock interrupted the moment. "Baba! Maa!" Ruhaan's excited voice rang out from the other side of the door.

Meera's laughter filled the room as I groaned dramatically. "And so, the day begins," I said, getting out of bed and pulling on my robe.

Meera followed, opening the door to find Ruhaan standing there, holding a tray of what could only be described as a chaotic mix of breakfast items. Behind him stood Maa sa, smiling fondly.

"Good morning!" Ruhaan announced proudly. "I helped Dadi make breakfast for you two!"

"Ruhaan, you're the best," Meera said, crouching to kiss his cheek. "Thank you, my love."

He beamed at her and then turned to me. "Baba, Dadi said you like parathas, so I told her to make extra."

I ruffled his hair. "You're my little genius, aren't you?"

As the four of us sat down to share the breakfast, the warmth of family filled the air. Maa sa watched Meera and Ruhaan with a fond smile, occasionally glancing at me with approval.

"You know," Maa sa said suddenly, "It's time we plan something to celebrate this reunion. The palace deserves to come alive with joy again."

"Celebrate?" I asked, intrigued.

"Yes," she said. "A welcome-back dinner for Meera. We'll invite everyone—family, friends, everyone who loves her. It's time the world knows that she's home."

Meera looked at me, hesitant but hopeful. I squeezed her hand under the table. "If that's what you want, Meera, we'll make it happen."

Her eyes softened. "I'd like that," she said quietly.

Ruhaan clapped his hands. "Does this mean I get to dress up like a prince again?"

Everyone laughed, and for the first time in years, the palace felt alive with happiness.

Later that day, as preparations for the dinner began, I pulled Meera aside. "Are you ready for this?" I asked her gently.

She nodded, her hand resting on my chest. "With you by my side, Adhyay, I'm ready for anything."

And for the first time, I truly believed her. Together, we could face anything.
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Author's pov

The grand palace courtyard was bustling with life. The press had gathered in full force, their cameras flashing incessantly as reporters vied for the best angles. The royal family stood poised, with Meera at the center, her head held high, embodying the grace and strength of a true queen. She wore a stunning traditional Rajasthani lehenga in deep crimson and gold, paired with exquisite jewelry befitting her regal status. Beside her stood Ruhaan, dressed in a miniature sherwani that matched hers, holding her hand tightly.