37|Jaipur

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Rathore Mansion 

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Rathore Mansion 

The next morning, the golden rays of the sun streamed into Tara's room as she sat by the window, replaying the events of the previous night in her mind. The memory of Surya’s gentle touch and his words lingered, making her heart flutter. She glanced at the clock, realizing it was later than usual, and hurried to get ready.

As she descended the grand staircase, she spotted Surya in the main hall, speaking to his father, Devendra Rathore. His posture was tense, but his expression remained composed, a sign of his usual self-assured demeanor. Tara paused at the bottom of the staircase, watching him.

She caught snippets of their conversation.

“…it’s a critical deal, Baba. I’ll be back in three days at most,” Surya said.

Devendra nodded curtly. “You’ve handled bigger challenges. I trust you’ll see this through.”

Surya’s lips curved into a faint smile, but it faded the moment he turned and caught sight of Tara. His gaze softened instantly, and he excused himself from his father before walking over to her.

“You’re awake late,” he teased lightly, his voice carrying the warmth that had filled the night before.

Tara smiled, though a trace of nervousness lingered. “I couldn’t sleep much. Are you leaving?” she asked, gesturing toward the small bag in his hand.

Surya nodded. “I have to leave for Jaipur. There’s an important client meeting that can’t be postponed.”

Tara hesitated, clutching the edge of her dupatta. “I… I want to come with you.”

Surya blinked, startled by her sudden declaration. “Tara, it’s not a leisure trip. It’ll be exhausting—meetings, travel, and barely any rest. Are you sure?”

She looked up at him, her resolve firm. “Yes. I don’t want to stay here alone. And besides…” She faltered for a moment before continuing, “You said last night that I deserve to be happy. I feel… at peace with you.”

Her words caught Surya off guard. He glanced around to ensure no one was within earshot, then leaned in slightly. “Tara,” he said gently, “I want you to be comfortable, but this trip might not be easy.”

“I can handle it,” she insisted, meeting his gaze. “Please.”

Surya sighed, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Alright. But on one condition—you’ll tell me if it gets too much for you. Promise?”

Tara nodded eagerly. “I promise.”

An hour later, they were on the road, the car gliding effortlessly along the winding highways that cut through vast stretches of countryside. 

Tara leaned back in her seat, her gaze fixed on the changing scenery outside. The fields, dotted with occasional clusters of trees and the occasional flash of bright flowers, seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon. 

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