The Naive Princess

Chapter-16

Adi,

''Who asked you to take my proposal for Raksha?'' I was mad at my mother.

''I don't have to ask anyone Aditya'' She replied calm stressing on my name, and indication of warning.

''You have to and you will. Because it's about my life, I decide where , when and whom I am going to marry. So please stay out of it.''

''Are you mad that my visit bought your and Raksha's hidden fun to a halt. I wasn't aware Rathore Princess was this bold. I was anyways doing a favour on them if anyone knows of her illicit relationship with you , she will have to stay single her life.'' She commented non-chalantly, as if it was nothing.

''Have you lost it your highness, she is a Rathore Princess. Do anything other than messing with them.'' I warned

''Are you scared? We are no less.'' She challenged.

''You know I am not scared of anyone, it's just that my father taught me to respect females. I would suggested mend your ways, or dad will have to deal with you.'' I disconnected before she could respond. Her one proud and wrong step can spoil my friendship with Veer, and who isn't aware of Rudrani Devi. The old scion is more powerful than anyone could comprehend; even when she had retired she can bring the world down for her family.

''Adi, you need to sign these papers for the project approval.'' Anjali walked in placing a set of papers on my table. Twirling my chair around I picked my pen, ''Why did you tell my mother about Raksha's stay over at my place.'' I asked without looking at her, as I flipped pages going through them, waiting for to answer.

There was no response for long, my eyes went to her. She stood across the table watching me with stoned eyes, ''If that what you believe. I have no explanation to give.'' She picked the file and left my room. In half an hour there was a resignation mail from her stating she wouldn't be reporting any further and had briefed the team on everything. I groaned covering my eyes with my hand, I should have gone in detail before questioning her. I am aware she had read accusation in Raksha's eyes the other morning when she left my house in hurry. Picking my phone I dialled James, ''Stop Anjali from leaving the Mansion.''

He stayed quiet for a moment, ''Adi, I think it's the right thing to do.''

''Have you lost it, think about Anika. It isn't safe for them. Shaan is out on bail.''

''if she stays, she would be questioned either by you or your mom. I know, I am stepping my boundaries but that's the truth. I 'll take care of them.'' He disconnected before I could utter a word.

Just great , I lost 2 best people in a day. My thoughts went to Anika, she was born and raised infront of me. I was emotionally attached to her, she reminded me of my sister whom I lost when she 3. Things changed in my family since then. Picking my keys I ran to the parking to amend the damage done in anger. I ordered my driver to move out of the passage seat getting in driver seat myself. My security rushed to their vehicles as I drove without them rashly. I kept cursing myself for doubting my best friend, a friend who stood by me like rock. It was her who helped me in growing this business. Yes, there was a time when I offered to marry her out of sympathy. Even in that battered and bruised state she refused to be pitied.

***

''I don't want to go to new house. I love this one, I love Adi.'' The words left Anika's mouth as she sobbed watching her mother frantically packing. ''I won't go'' Anika screamed stubbornly not getting any response from her mother. What happened next was something I never expected; Anjali slapped the four year old. ''You will go where I will take you. Do you get it?''

''How could you?'' I snarled pulling Anika to me. The child was so traumatised that she didn't even cry, her body trembling in fear. I rubbed her back holding my little friend to my chest. The way her tiny fingers held my jacket gave away her state of shock. ''Have you lost it Anjali''