The Royal Boundaries

Chapter 14: A Promise of Secrecy

A few days after their late-night conversation, Aditi found herself waiting at a quiet spot on campus near the garden where she and Raghav often met. It was early evening, and the golden light of the setting sun filtered through the trees, casting a warm glow over the scene. She had chosen a simple green and white salwar kameez, her hair pulled back, her appearance understated yet elegant.

As she looked around, lost in thought, Raghav appeared, walking toward her with a soft smile. He was dressed casually in a light blue shirt and jeans, his relaxed look contrasting with the composed yet royal demeanor he often carried.

They exchanged a quiet smile, their familiarity both comforting and slightly nervous as they prepared to discuss the future of their connection.

They took a seat on a stone bench under the shade of a large tree, the sound of leaves rustling softly around them.

Raghav (breaking the silence, his tone gentle): "Thank you for meeting me, Aditi. I know things have been complicated lately."

Aditi looked down, gathering her thoughts before responding.

Aditi: "I've thought a lot about everything... about who you are and what that means for us. It's hard, Raghav. We come from such different worlds."

Raghav nodded, his expression understanding.

Raghav: "I know, and I don't want to ignore that reality. But I also don't want to lose this—whatever it is we have. If you're willing to try, maybe we can take things slowly... away from everyone else's expectations."

Aditi (softly): "You mean... keeping it a secret?"

Raghav: "Yes. Just between us. No titles, no outside opinions—just you and me."

Aditi felt her heart lighten at the thought. Though secrecy would be challenging, it would allow them to explore their bond without interference, free from the judgment and expectations of society.

After a moment, Aditi looked up, her expression resolute.

Aditi: "Alright, Raghav. Let's keep it between us. But I want honesty. If anything changes, I want us to be open with each other. No more surprises."

Raghav nodded, his gaze sincere.

Raghav: "You have my word, Aditi. I don't want to hide anything from you anymore."

They shared a meaningful look, a silent promise to protect what they were building together, even if it had to be shielded from the world.

Their agreement added a new layer of excitement to their relationship. Every glance they exchanged in public, every casual encounter on campus, held a quiet thrill, a reminder of their secret. They met in hidden corners of the campus or strolled through the quieter parts of the gardens, savoring each moment of privacy.

One evening, as they walked through the garden, Raghav took her hand, his touch gentle but filled with warmth. Aditi felt a spark run through her, her heart racing as she looked up at him.

Raghav (smiling): "Do you think we'll always have to meet like this?"

Aditi (smiling back): "Maybe... but I think that makes these moments even more special."

He chuckled softly, squeezing her hand as they continued walking. Though secrecy added tension, it also made their time together feel precious, like stolen moments away from the eyes of the world.

Their secret arrangement brought them closer, allowing them to share deeper parts of themselves. Raghav told Aditi about his childhood in the palace, the pressure of growing up with a title, and the expectations that often felt overwhelming. Aditi listened intently, appreciating his honesty and understanding him more with each story.

Raghav: "Sometimes I feel like my life isn't my own. But with you, I can be... just Raghav."

Aditi smiled, feeling honored to be someone he could confide in.

Aditi: "And you make me feel seen, too. Like my dreams matter, even if they're small compared to the world you're used to."

Raghav (gently): "Your dreams are anything but small, Aditi. They're real, and they're meaningful."

They often spent evenings like this, sharing pieces of themselves in a quiet corner of campus, their private world becoming a sanctuary for both of them.

However, the secrecy also had its challenges. There were moments when Aditi felt the weight of their hidden relationship, aware that she was growing attached to someone whose world was vastly different from hers. She wondered if their bond would survive the scrutiny that might come if people found out.

One afternoon, while studying in the library, she overheard students gossiping about the royal family, speculating about Raghav's future and the high expectations placed on him.

Student 1 (whispering): "I heard his family is already planning his marriage. Probably to some high-society girl or even a foreign princess."

Student 2: "Makes sense. Royals usually marry within their circle. Imagine the pressure he must be under."

Aditi felt her chest tighten as she listened, a reminder of the reality of Raghav's life. Though he had reassured her, she couldn't ignore the fact that his family would have their own expectations for his future.

Later that evening, Aditi and Raghav met in their usual spot in the garden. She couldn't help but bring up her concerns, wanting to be honest about the anxieties that weighed on her.

Aditi: "Raghav, do you think... do you think there will ever come a time when we don't have to keep this a secret?"

Raghav looked at her, his gaze filled with understanding.

Raghav: "I hope so, Aditi. I don't want to keep this hidden forever. But right now, it's the only way we can have this... without outside pressures."

Aditi nodded, her expression conflicted.

Aditi: "I just worry... what if someday, your family decides your future for you?"

Raghav reached out, gently taking her hands in his.

Raghav: "They may have expectations, but my life is mine to live. I can't make promises about the future, but I can promise you this: I care deeply for you, and I'm willing to fight for what we have."

His words brought a sense of comfort, and Aditi felt her fears ease. Though their future was uncertain, his sincerity reassured her, and she felt a renewed strength to cherish each moment they had.

As they walked back toward campus, Aditi felt a quiet confidence growing within her. Their promise of secrecy allowed them to explore their feelings without fear of judgment, but it also strengthened their bond, making each shared moment feel precious.

They had a long road ahead, filled with challenges, but for now, they were content in their hidden world—a space where they could be themselves, away from the prying eyes of society