Page 234 of Rudra Nandani: The Saga of Control And Seduction

I turned to see Nandani, who stepped forward shyly. Badimaa smiled warmly and handed her the heavy bunch of the palace’s keys. Nandani touched them to her forehead and bent down to seek blessings.

“May you become the most renowned queen in history,” Badimaa blessed her.

I smiled, seeing the light blush on Nandani’s cheeks. We went on to greet all the elders and accept their blessings.

The celebration began, and loud sounds of trumpets and drums filled the air as the crowd cheered for us. I spotted Agastya dancing shamelessly among the crowd, laughing, enjoying himself with everyone.

I looked at Nandani, who still refused to talk to me.“Hey,” I tried softly once we sat on the royal couch.

She didn't even glance my way. I smiled, amused by her tantrums.

Gifts were poured in one after another by rulers across the northern region.

The feast soon started, and as tradition demanded, men and women dined separately. The whole of Suryagarh was invited for dinner, a perfect opportunity to win their hearts.

I sat among our people, Ranvijay, Agastya, her father, brother, and all the officials. Everyone noticed the bright red imprint on my chest, but no one said anything aloud.

The day ended long after nightfall. Some guests departed, while others stayed back.

After bidding everyone goodnight and checking the preparations for the morning, I finally made my way to my chamber.

The chamber was beautifully lit, filled with the fragrance of roses and lavender.

As I stepped in, I noticed the attendants leaving after setting everything up. Looking around, I couldn't spot Nandani.

I asked an attendant,“Where is Ranisa?”

She bowed slightly.“I’m sorry, Ranaji. I do not know,”

“Please find her and ask her to meet me,” I said, and she nodded before hurrying off.

Feeling drained, I sank onto the couch, waiting. Minutes turned into an hour. The milk placed for us went cold—still no sign of her.

Anger and worry boiled inside me. Where was she?

I left the chamber and began searching. The palace corridors were silent and deserted at this hour.

I searched everywhere, the library, the bathing area, the gardens, but no sign of her. My heart hammered as I turned toward the kitchens, the last place I hadn’t checked.

As I approached, faint laughter echoed through the halls.

What the hell?

There she was. Standing with Agastya, stirring something in a pan over the stove, smiling brightly.

My brows furrowed tightly. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

“What the hell are you two doing here?” I asked sharply, my voice louder than I intended.

“Bhaisa,” Agastya chuckled carelessly.

I glared at Nandani, who continued stirring calmly, acting unfazed by my arrival.

“Nothing. Just spending some quality time,” she said with a stiff smile that hit harder than any slap.

I felt a tightness in my chest at her casual tone.

“But isn't it very late?” I tried to reason as I stepped closer.

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