THE ROYAL AFFAIR

I

As expected Shnaya did not come for breakfast in the morning. When Maharani asked for her she was informed that Shnaya was not feeling well and had taken a tray in her room.

Maharani had to go to a nearby village because the NGO she worked with was holding a medical camp for vaccinating toddlers for free. She decided to talk with Shnaya later because it pained her to see Shnaya suffering for no fault of hers.

Shnaya had a severe headache since she had spent the entire night crying. If this was going to be her life, waiting for her husband who didn't even bother to inform her that he wouldn't be back at night then it was going to be a lonely life indeed.

She was deep in her thoughts when someone knocked at her door. It was Vishal. "I thought if My pretty bhabhi has free time today I would like to give you a tour of our kingdom's famous shopping markets followed by lunch at my favorite restaurant. before refusing I better remind you that I promised you a dinner but even a lunch will do. "

Even though she was not very fond of Vishal but at least he took care of her feelings so she decided to accept his offer."Ok give me fifteen minutes to get ready:

"I give you half an hour but please don't wear a lehnga or suit. Wear something western"

Shnaya was not sure what would suffice as a dress for a princess so she played safe by wearing long black trousers with a red long top . Not being very keen on makeup she simply applied a red lipstick

Shnaya was surprised to see that an open convertible was ready for them and Vishal was Sitting on the drivers seat .

"No driver ? "

"No it's only you and me and our beautiful city By the way Shnaya western suits you . You have the perfect body to carry off these clothes . Youcould give therunway models a run for your money "

" Vishal too much flattery will get you nowhere. Now ate you taking me sightseeing or are we going to waste time in conversations"

"Shnaya am I that boring?"Vishal made a sad face and Shnaya burst of laughing .

Vishal was an entertaining companion who had full knowledge of the hot spots of his city but shnaya was more keen on temples and forts . However when she mentioned visiting a fort he laughed it off and took her to their local market .

Shnaya liked the local market of Rajgarh . There were plen ty of good shops selling every from groceries to clothes to souvenirs and even local rural jewellary in silver .Shnaya liked the designs of the rural jewellery and decided to buy some on her next trip . Vishal noticed Shnayas interest and arranged for the lady to come to the royal palace the next day .

Shnaya realised that Vishal was a caring person. She felt sad that her husband had no regard of her feelings while her brother in law had taken time of from work just to cheer her up .

After the local market Vishal took her for a late lunch at a five star hotel . The hotel was made with a typical Rajasthani architecture . But the best part was that it faced the lake . Infact it reminded Shnaya of Radisson resort Udaipur where her marriage had taken place .

Shnaya insisted on taking lunch outside because the view of the lake was stunning .

The food was delicious and the company entertaining so Shnaya enjoyed her lunch immensely and that to after a long time.

After lunch Vishal took her boat riding . Shnaya was smiling and laughing and Vishal felt happy because he knew that she was hurt with Vikram's behaviour . Though he was not very fond of Vikram he liked Shnaya s unpretentious attitude .

It was already 7 PM so they headed back to the palace . As Shnaya got out of the car she thanked Vishal for a wonderful day. Vishal bowed before her ,"Anything for a beautiful lady " Shnaya laughed at his remark .

She was humming a tune when she entered her wing of rooms , moving straight to her bedroom when she heard Vikram's voice ," Well well Shnaya enjoyed your day ? You seem to have become good friends with everyone except your husband "

Shnaya turned back to see Vikram seated on the living area sofa with a drink in his hand .

" Actually it was a lovely day . After such a long time I enjoyed myself thanks to Vishal who took time off from work to spend some time with me "

"Won't you sit with me ?"

"Sorry Vikram I am very tired. I am going straight to bed . I won't be having any dinner . Please convey my apology to Maharani ji that I will not be able to join her for dinner today"

Vikram threw the glass in the room in anger and informed the chef to prepare nothing for him .