The Naive Princess

Chapter-30

Adi,

A permanent smile had been plastered to my face since the guest lecture at the university. Raksha's face was a treat to watch. She had always been way more than expressive, hiding emotions and feelings have never been her thing. Her face is mirror to her soul, every time I mentioned something related to us during the lecture she seemed to be cursing me in her head. I found that cute, but its an amazing feeling to watch color run up her cheeks and knowing that I am the reason makes me feel all the way more amazing.

The day at work to turned out be awesome.  I felt content, though I have lost the keys of her house but I still am hopeful about finding a way to her. With random thoughts in my mind my car drove into the drive way of my mansion. Swinging my keys I stepped in humming my favourite song.

''Adi, we have a guest.'' Anjali's voice halted my steps. I frowned, I wasn't expecting anyone nor I was aware of any business partner or friend visiting me. Nodding once, I followed Anjali to the main hall. I feet halted when I eyes fell on the visitor, ''Hello Adi''

Ananya greeted me with a smile, there was something about that smile that made me frown. Next to her was her daughter who was busy looking at the unfamiliar surroundings. ''I wasn't expecting you''

''I know, even I wasn't expecting to visit you. At least, not this  soon.'' She replied with a smile which didn't reach her eyes. Taking a deep breath, I took the place opposite to her, ''What would you like to have?''

''A cup of tea would be good.'' She smiled never moving from her eyes from me. ''Can I play with the baby.'' Anika asked innocently and Anjali followed her in apologizing profusely. That moment I saw a different Ananya, calm loving and angelic, ''Off course sweet heart.'' Anjali picked the little Princess up as Anika wouldn't leave without her. And Ananya was back to the icy self. I had met her when she was just Ranvijay's wife , since then she has come a long way. She has grown up into a powerful woman. 

The butler bought in the tea and she took a sip from her cup, ''Adi, visiting Raksha in the darkness of night like a thief is not something appreciable.''

''I am not looking for permission.'' True I didn't care who thinks what

She smirked, ''If I were you, I would.'' I was about to reply but rise of her palm silenced me, ''It was you who turned her down. It was you who threatened to make her life hell. Even  after knowing of your mother's deeds, she wanted your love but you turned her down. What do you think of yourself Prince, not everything is going to go as per your will. Its you who have been deciding it every time, and that cannot be fair.''

''I guess you have forgotten your wedding with Ranvijay, that was too forced.'' I know I shouldn't have said that but it just came out.

''Yes, it was. But there is a difference, once he said he loved me he never backed out . Ranvijay never dwindled like a pendulum when it came to his decisions. He said he would marry me and he did, even when Granny was against it. If you want to compare, compare that because you couldn't do it. '' That came from the fiery Queen like a whip lash.

''Apologies, I shouldn't have said that .'' 

Her eyes turned calm, ''Well, I had no intention of interfering in your and Raksha's matter . But sneaking into the house is  something which cannot be ignored. I was a commoner , Raksha isn't and not to forget I didn't had brothers like Ranvijay and Veer. I have a suggestion, take things slow. Convince her first, then your family because convincing Rathores is no going to be easy. GOOD LUCK!'' She walked out of the room without waiting for my reply or greetings. I followed her out, she lovingly ruffled Anika's hair and gave Anjali a hug giving the glimpse of old Ananya. She lifted her reluctant daughter up and walked out with a whoosh.