POTION OF LOVE

35. 𝐒𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐤

The room smelled like faint sandalwood along with a mixture of scented candles. The engraved ceiling, the golden and dusky interior with vintage furniture - it's like walking back into the past

Indian architecture is so detailed and fascinating. I have never imagined seeing it or even experiencing living in this palace.

When Jasmine mentioned about Veer's wedding in udaipur I expected hotels or some resort. Not a whole palace which is now used for destination weddings.

I open the zip of my luggage, careful taking out the clothes and setting them into this tall, hardwood wardrobe. An antique mirror placed beside the wardrobe which shined whenever the sun reflected through the curtains.

This place is amazing and calm. It's like I am living in an historical painting.

The palace - Suryagarh Palace , as Jasmine had called it, was stunning. A preserved symbol of royal India turned into a wedding venue, still heavy with tradition and beauty.

I slowly step towards the small balcony, the low railings which are painted in golden colour. I peek out at the view of a large garden, along the row of beautiful flower bushes and a fountain in the middle.

We landed a few hours ago, when Jasmine and I took our jet - Jasmine's family came through a flight. But we had to travel to this place via buses.

Rajasthan's temperature is relatively higher than Maharashtra's. During the whole ride, Jasmine was making me drink water and juices to make sure I wasn't feeling ill or uncomfortable. It was cute watching Jasmine fuss over me, at least I could be confident in the fact that she cares more than she admits. Though I had to take a shower as soon as I came into this room.

I sigh softly, getting back inside and continue unpacking. This place feels really silent and also sacred - maybe that's why I could hear the door creek open.

“Lucas?”

I turn quickly, hearing her call my name - it's always different depending on the mood, the timing and sometimes the feeling. This time it's soft, sweet, almost requesting me to look

And when I did. I don't regret it one bit

“Wow” it comes out in a single, silent whisper.
Jasmine stands at the door, draped in a satin suit like she wore when we landed in Mumbai. But this time it's Red. The rich and refined colour with gold embroidery.

A thin, soft dupatta grazed with the wind as she moved. Her long earrings brushed against her neck as she tilted her head watching me.

For a second - a very long second. I forget everything except her. Forget the palace, forget the wedding. Forget about breathing.

How does she always manage to swoon me away without even doing anything?

She steps forward, the tiny mirrors embroidered on the edges of her top catches the light of the sun reflecting it back to me. “Lucas?” She calls again making me nod foolishly