Love Across Time

Forty One

-𝓣𝔀𝓲𝓷𝓴𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓐𝓷𝓴𝓵𝓮𝓽𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓢𝓽𝓸𝓵𝓮𝓷 𝓖𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮𝓼-

As Duryodhan and Dushala left, Aanya let out a weary sigh and made her way to the terrace, seeking solace in the quiet night. She settled into the swing, gently swaying back and forth, letting the cool breeze wash over her, bringing a sense of calm. Her mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Dushala's impending conversation with Jayadrath. Aanya had spotted him earlier that morning and had an unsettling feeling about him. She desperately hoped that Dushala would reject him, but she knew it would be a challenging task, especially with Duryodhan so resolute in his decision to wed Dushala to Jayadrath.

Lost in her contemplations, Aanya was surprised by the sound of Arjun's voice behind her. She turned to find him looking at her with a warm smile. "So, here you are," he said softly.

Aanya returned the smile. "I needed some fresh air and quiet."

"I was looking for you," Arjun replied, concern evident in his eyes.

Aanya approached him, trying to push aside her worries for the moment. "Why were you looking for me?"

"Are you okay?" Arjun asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

Aanya shook her head. "Yes."

"What's on your mind?" Arjun inquired gently.

Aanya hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I've been thinking about Dushala and what lies ahead for her."

Arjun placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "A man is the architect of his own destiny, Aanya. Sometimes, things unfold as they are meant to, regardless of our efforts, to intervene."

Aanya nodded, taking in Arjun's words. "I just want her to be happy."

"I understand," Arjun said softly. "But perhaps it is not our place to determine what will bring her happiness. Sometimes, we must allow others to find their own path, no matter how difficult it may seem."

Aanya sighed, acknowledging Arjun's words. She knew that her concern for Dushala stemmed from a place of deep love and empathy, but she also understood that everyone had their own journey to navigate.

"So, what brings you here?" Aanya asked, her eyebrows arching in curiosity as she tilted her head with a smile.

"A little birdie told me that the princess needs her prince, so here I am," Arjun replied, flashing a charming grin that made Aanya's heart flutter.

"Oh, really?" Aanya asked, her laughter bubbling up as she raised her eyebrows in mock skepticism, unable to hide her delight.

"Oh, absolutely!" Arjun replied, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he playfully extended his arm in a mock bow. "I'm here to rescue you from the clutches of boredom and whisk you away on a magical adventure!"

Aanya couldn't help but giggle, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Well, My Knight in Shining Armor, I must warn you that my palace has a strict 'no dull moments' policy. But I think I can make an exception for a charming rogue like you."

Arjun let out a soft chuckle at her response. The moon was shining above as he watched Aanya giggle, her laughter lighting up the night. She looked absolutely beautiful with that smile, and Arjun couldn't help but get lost in the moment. Aanya noticed his gaze and raised her brows, curious about what had caught his attention.

"You look better than every day," Arjun said with a mischievous smile, unable to resist teasing her.

"Excuse me! What do you mean 'better'? I look beautiful every day," Aanya playfully flicked her hair.