"Do you know, Guruma told me how much she likes me being there." Thirteen year old Meenakshi spoke about her new life. "She is absolutely right. Having you around is like having our blessings around." Chitrama said, as she slowly massaged her bruised arms. "Who would not like you?" She asked, her question rhetorical. "My parents." Meenakshi whispered, making Chitrama look at her. She smiled softly at her, as she saw the little girl becoming a woman. "Does you feet not hurt you?" She asked diverting her attention. They were bruised from walking on the rocks and climbing trees. "No ma. I am used to the pain." Meenakshi said, making Chitrama's heart weep. "One day, you shall be cherished dear, so much that all this pain will be worth it." She said, caressing her soles, before she bandaged them. "I don't have any such expectations ma. And I don't wish to." She said, before she walked to the bathing area.

(Coming soon as independent WEBTOON) || Half-completed story *** For as long as Niharika could remember, she led a simple life overshadowed by her own misery. Despite belonging to a well-established family and being the youngest child, she was the neglected one, living her life as an outcast. She never hoped or dreamed of being desired by anyone, let alone getting married to the most powerful man from an ancient royal clan, who turned out to be an inherited king. It seemed like a nightmare she couldn't escape from. She had no idea how her life had stumbled into such a situation. Just when she thought life had made her suffer enough, it took an even worse turn. Her husband, Prithvi Chauhan, was her safe space yet her tormentor, accusing her of something she had no knowledge of. She found herself trapped in a web of deception and manipulation. It became evident that there was more to the situation than met the eye. Being the weakest and easily manipulated, Niharika was unaware that she was merely being used as a pawn in a much more complex game. But yet, her beauty and her stammering didn't go unnoticed by her royalty, her husband. He couldn't help but be captivated by her, always desperate / yearning to hear her speak. How did this girl, who did nothing more than remain reserved and true to herself, capture the heart of her royalty?