Jogini : A fight for honour

Chp 32:- Confession

   Being in his arms was like heaven for her. She was glad that her love was with her, in her arms, totally into her. That was all she had silently wished for.

Kumar Amarendra had never found a peace that could surpass his understanding. Avantika's touch, her smile and her eyes made him wonder how could any God make a woman so perfect. He was late to acknowledge his love, but he was thankful to the almighty that he had found her. He felt guilty of not listening and heeding her constant advice, but he was too afraid to broach the topic again in fear of losing her once more.

"AKKA!" Exclaimed Anannya "You know him?"

Avantika smiled and nodded saying, "He is Kumar Amarendra, and the one there," She added pointing to the further end of the dimly lit temple, "is Kumar Rudhra, his younger brother. The princes of Maheshmati."

Avantika looked at Kumar Amarendra and said, "She is my sister Anannya, Rajguru Venkata's daughter."

The two prince immediately understood what the new story was about and decided against asking any questions.

Kumar Rudhra and Anannya left the temple, so as that their respective siblings could talk. Kumar Amarendra remained with Avantika in the temple.

There was silence. It somehow filled the gap between their awkwardness and their love which was so evident !

Until.....

Kumar Amarendra said, "Avanti, you were always right. I had been the most biggest fool on earth to think that nanna was right..."

Avantika looked at him but said nothing, allowing him to speak.

"I travelled across Aitareya Bhramana and..." He sighed, "The condition is horrible." He paused and looked at Avantika then continued, "You were right, the devdasi pratha still exists. It's a horrible sight to behold when young girls actually give themselves in the name of God for prostitution. Naana has done nothing about this. There are robbers on the loose who plunder the villages and...."

Kumar Amarendra stopped and looked at Avantika...

"Why don't you speak?" He asked.

She didn't reply and Kumar Amarendra was hurt.

"I know you...you just hate me and ...."

"What happened to your nose?" She asked inquisitively.

He smiled to himself and replied, "An officer punched me."

"Punched you!" She exclaimed flabbergasted. She was hiding her laughter.

"Umm...yes..." He shrugged a little.

She burst out laughing. "Oh my god! Someone punched the prince of Maheshmati!! Unbelievable."

How he had missed that melodious voice! He would do anything in the world for her to be his. He promised to himself that he would never let the smile off her face.

As for Avantika, she was back being to her serious and rigid self.

She came closer to him; her calm and composed breathing touched his bruised nose. He leaned against the pillar and allowed her to examine the bruise while he was unable to take his eyes off his lady love.