“Anshhhh!” Maya screams, her voice echoing through the bathroom. Ansh jolts awake, his heart racing as he rushes to her side.

 “What happened? Are you hurt? Are you okay?” His hands grip her shoulders, worry clear on his face. 

Maya scowls, pointing at her chest.

 “What is this?” she demands, her tone sharp.

 He follows her gaze, a slow smirk forming as he sees the deep red marks scattered across her skin. 

“Baby, that’s just proof of how hot you are.” His voice is thick with amusement as he lifts her effortlessly, placing her onto the cool marble countertop. 

Maya scrunches her nose, feeling annoyed yet warm inside. She tries to fight the smile creeping onto her lips. 

 “Get out,” she mutters, trying to sound stern. But Adranksh doesn’t move. Instead, he spreads her legs slightly, stepping between them, his hands resting possessively on her thighs. He lifts her chin, making her meet his gaze. 

“Are you sore, baby?” he asks softly, concern in his voice. 

Her heart melts at his gentleness. She nods.

 A flicker of something dark yet tender crosses his eyes before he kneels, gripping her waist and pulling her to the edge of the counter. 

Her breath catches. “Ansh… what are you doing?” she whispers, uncertainty and anticipation mingling. He looks up at her, his face filled with promise. “Trust me.”

Before she can respond, his tongue flicks out, soothing the ache between her thighs. A gasp escapes her lips, her fingers tangling in his hair. He takes his time, his touch gentle yet intoxicating, turning soreness into pleasure. 

By the time he pulls away, her body is limp and relaxed. He stands, wrapping her legs around his waist as he carries her toward the bathtub. 

The water is already filled, steaming slightly with the scent of lavender in the air. 

With care, he steps in, lowering her slowly into the warm water before settling in behind her. She exhales a soft, happy hum as he gathers her in his arms, his hands gliding over her body, easing away the tension.

 He presses a lingering kiss to her shoulder, his voice low and warm against her ear. “Feeling better?” 

Maya turns her head slightly, her eyes finding his. Her thumb brushes over his dimple, as if discovering it anew. 

In that moment, wrapped in his embrace, she feels nothing but peace.

The Rajput Mansion was stunning, adorned with shimmering lights and royal decorations for a grand occasion.

 Today was the day, Maya and Adranksh would be crowned King and Queen of Rajasthan. 

Despite the significance, the two had only returned that afternoon, much to Shrestha’s annoyance. 

She stood before them, arms crossed, her eyes narrowing. 

“You both better be ready by five. The ceremony starts at six, but I want you dressed and ready by five sharp. Do you understand?”

 Without waiting for a response, she grabbed Maya’s wrist. “Maya, come with me.”

As she was pulled away, Maya turned back, glaring at Adranksh and mouthing a silent

“Fuck you.” He chuckled, shaking his head as he checked his watch. 2:00 PM. There was still time. 

Pulling out his phone, he dialed Abhimaan.

 “Bhai, kya baat hai?” Abhimaan answered, teasing him. 

“Let’s go boxing,” Adranksh said, already heading for the door. “I need to talk to you about something.” 

There was a brief pause before Abhimaan replied, “Alright, meet you there in fifteen.” 

With that, Adranksh ended the call and stepped out of the mansion, ready to clear his head—and maybe throw a few punches while he was at it.

—
“Your back looks beautiful, Adranksh.” Abhimaan smirks as he notices the red marks on his friend's skin. “Bhabhi went all out, huh?”  

Adranksh glares at him and quickly punches his arm.  

“Ahh, damn it!” Abhimaan winces, rubbing the sore spot. “That was unnecessary.”  

“Shut up and listen,” Adranksh says, his tone becoming serious. He recounts his encounter with Ranvijay Shekhawat, his jaw tightening with each word.  

Abhimaan’s expression changes from amusement to shock. “No way,” he mutters, trying to digest the news. “I think he’s just messing with you, man. Bhabhi can’t be the enemy.”  

“I know,” Adranksh sighs, running a hand through his hair. “Just find Blue for now.”  

Without saying anything else, he turns and walks away, his mind racing with possibilities.  

He arrives at the mansion at 4:30 PM and walks to his room. He sighs before looking at the sherwani laid out on the bed. After a quick shower, he changes into it.

Maa pulls me into her room, where a group of girls, including Vedha and Ishani, is already gathered. Their faces light up with excitement when they see me. 

Vedha steps forward with a dramatic bow. “Your Highness,” she jokes, her eyes sparkling with mischief. 

I laugh and play along. “You may rise.” 

The girls burst into giggles and rush up to hug me warmly. 

Maa watches us with a small smile before turning to Vedha and Ishani. “She’s your responsibility now. I want her ready by five.” 

The girls nod obediently, but I know they’ll find a way to stir up trouble. With a final nod of approval, Maa leaves the room, and the other attendants follow her out.

Once the door closes, the squealing starts. 

“I can’t believe this is happening!” Ishu exclaims. “You’re going to be Queen, Maya!” 

I laugh and shake my head at their excitement. “Guys, I need to shower first.” 

In the bathroom, I take a moment to relax. The warm water soothes my skin, washing away the exhaustion from the past few days. But as I reach for a towel, a terrible realization hits me. 

I forgot to grab my clothes. 

I groan inwardly, dreading what’s about to happen. They’re going to see the hickeys. 

Sighing, I wrap myself in a robe and step out, pretending everything is normal. 

I barely take two steps before Ishu’s sharp eyes fixate on my exposed skin. 

“Wait, wait, what’s that?!” Vedha gasps, moving closer to examine the marks. 

I freeze. 

Scrunching my nose, I try—and fail—to look innocent. “N-nothing,” I stammer, attempting to walk past them. 

But it’s too late. Their eyes widen as realization sinks in, followed by the most dramatic gasp I have ever heard. 

Vedha gasps when she sees the marks. “Looks like someone had a different kind of race last night.” 

“OH. MY. GOD.” Ishu practically screams. “DETAILS. NOW.” 

I groan, knowing I can’t escape. “Fine, fine! I’ll tell you—but only if you cover them up first!” 

That’s all it takes. In an instant, they pull me into a chair in front of the mirror and start doing my hair and makeup. 

As I share the scandalous story, they gasp and giggle at all the right moments. By the time I finish, they look at me like I’ve committed a crime. 

“NO. WAY.” Vedha whispers. “You did not just say that.” 

I roll my eyes. “Believe it.” 

After what feels like forever, my makeup is flawless, my hair is styled perfectly, and—all importantly—all signs of last night’s activities are skillfully hidden. 

I let out a sigh of relief and turn to the mirror. 

I stare at my reflection. 

For a moment, I hardly recognize myself. 

The heavy crimson and gold lehenga drapes over me like a second skin, and the embroidery glistens in the soft light. My jewelry—the polki necklace, the bangles, the maang tikka—only adds to the regal look. My eyes, lined with kohl, have a certain spark, and my lips curve into a knowing smile. 

I look… beautiful. 

“There’s a glow on your face,” Vedha teases, winking. “You should definitely thank jiju for it.” 

I snap my head toward her, scowling. “Shut up.” 

But even as I say it, I can’t help but smile. 

Deep down, I know she’s right.

The heavy doors swung open as Shrestha and Kamakshi entered, followed by the other women from the household. 

When they saw Maya, a collective gasp filled the room. She stood like royalty in crimson and gold, embodying the legacy of queens before her. 

The diamonds on her skin sparkled under the soft glow of the chandeliers, but nothing compared to the quiet confidence in her eyes. 

“Krishna,” Kamakshi whispered, pressing a hand to her heart. 

The women gathered around Maya in awe, showering her with praises and blessings, their voices overlapping with excitement as they led her outside the room. 

The air outside crackled with energy. 

As Maya stepped forward, her gaze was irresistibly drawn to him. 

Adranksh. 

Dressed in black and gold, his embroidered sherwani and the sword at his waist amplified the raw authority he carried effortlessly. His broad shoulders, the sharp cut of his jaw, and the way his dark eyes seemed to consume her left Maya breathless. 

Their eyes locked. 

The world faded away. 

His gaze traveled slowly over her, taking in every detail. She was breathtaking. 

“Beautiful,” he muttered softly, just loud enough for Aadrik and Avyaansh to hear. 

Aadrik smirked. “Bhaiya, she’s already yours. You can stare at Bhabhi as much as you want after the ceremony.” 

Adranksh barely acknowledged his younger brother’s teasing; his full attention remained on her. 

Feeling the intensity of his stare, Maya bit her lip, mischief sparkling in her eyes as she stepped closer. Their bodies moved instinctively, drawn together as if by an invisible force. 

Adranksh reached out a hand. 

She took it without hesitation. 

A silent promise passed between them as their fingers intertwined. 

Shrestha paused, watching them with a knowing smile before addressing the others. “You both wait here. Have a moment. Come after us when you’re done.” 

As the others walked away, the silence between Maya and Adranksh deepened, thick with unspoken words and the tension of longing. 

Adranksh’s fingers tightened around hers as he pulled her a fraction closer. His voice, deeper than usual, brushed against her skin like a velvet touch. 

“You look so perfect, malyshka. Like an enchantress.” 

Maya smirked, her voice playful yet filled with the same hunger he felt. 

“And you look so handsome I could eat you right now, hubby.” 

Adranksh exhaled sharply, his jaw tightening as he fought his instincts. For just a moment, his grip on her waist wavered before he leaned in, his lips grazing her ear. 

“Keep testing me, Maya. I swear, I’ll ruin this coronation for everyone.” 

Maya laughed softly, her breath warm against his neck. 

“Behave, my king,” she whispered, tilting her chin up just slightly—enough to keep him on edge. 

He took a deep breath, his control hanging by a thread. 

But tonight… 

Tonight, she would be crowned his queen. 

And after that? 

She was his. Completely. 

The Rajput Palace shimmered under the golden chandeliers, its ancient walls whispering the stories of generations past.

The grand Darbar Hall, decorated with fragrant marigolds, was packed with nobles, dignitaries, and guests from across Rajasthan.

The air buzzed with anticipation as the ceremonial drums began to play, their deep tones shaking the very foundations of the palace. 

At the far end of the hall, on the grand dais, two thrones of solid gold awaited. The Rajguru, an elderly sage dressed in saffron robes, held the sacred crown in his wrinkled hands, ready to present it to the next rulers of Rajasthan. 

The doors at the far end of the hall swung open. 

Adranksh Singh Rajput and Maya Adranksh Singh Rajput stepped forward, side by side, radiating an air of royalty that left the crowd breathless. 

Adranksh wore a regal black and gold sherwani, embroidered with ancient Rajput symbols of bravery and strength. A sword once wielded by his ancestors rested at his hip. His sharp gaze held unyielding confidence. 

Maya, beside him, looked ethereal in a deep crimson lehenga, the gold embroidery sparkling like flame. Her polki diamond jewelry, passed down from the Rajput queens, shimmered while her maang tikka rested elegantly on her forehead.

The weight of tradition and expectation might have felt overwhelming, but Maya carried it with the fierce grace that had captured Adranksh’s heart. 

As they ascended the steps to their thrones, the Rajguru raised his hand, signaling for silence. 

“The heavens have blessed this day,” his voice echoed through the hall.

“Today, Rajasthan receives its new King and Queen, leaders who will honor the bloodline of warriors, uphold justice, and protect their people with bravery.” 

A palace maiden stepped forward, carrying a silver thaal with sacred kumkum, sandalwood, and rose water. She gently applied tilak to Adranksh and Maya’s foreheads. 

The Rajguru then lifted the crown, its gold inlaid with the Navratnas—the nine divine gems. He turned to Adranksh first. 

“Kneel, my king.” 

Adranksh knelt, bowing his head. As the weight of the crown settled upon him, a loud cheer erupted from the assembly. 

“Maharaj Adranksh Singh Rajput ki jai!” (Long live King Adranksh Singh Rajput!) 

He rose, gripping the hilt of his sword tightly, the burden of the kingdom resting upon his shoulders. 

The Rajguru then turned to Maya. “Kneel, my queen.” 

Maya’s heart raced, but she stood firm. As the Queen's Crown, a masterpiece of pearls, diamonds, and uncut rubies, was placed on her head, she felt a surge of purpose and strength. 

“Maharani Maya Adranksh Singh Rajput ki jai!” (Long live Queen Maya Adranksh Singh Rajput!) 

The palace erupted in applause, petals of rose and marigold showering over them as the drums thundered in celebration. 

Adranksh turned to Maya, offering his hand. She took it without hesitation, their fingers intertwining, ready to face the world together.