Maya entered Suhasini's opulent chamber, feelings of envy and longing creeping in. The lavish decorations, exquisite furnishings, and expansive space stood in stark contrast to her own humble quarters near the servant quarters.

"Choose a dress for me, Maya," Suhasini requested, oblivious to her sister's inner turmoil.

Maya's gaze swept across the array of vibrant saris and elegant gowns. She forced a smile, hiding her pain. "The pink one, Princess. It suits you perfectly."

As Suhasini chatted, Maya listened attentively, injecting enthusiasm into her responses. However, her thoughts wandered:

"Why can't I have such beautiful things? I'm a princess too, albeit hidden."

Suhasini's words pierced Maya's reverie. "Maya, do you think King AdityaRaj will like me?"

Maya's mask of servitude slipped for an instant, revealing a flicker of resentment. She swiftly regained composure. "Of course, Princess. You're intelligent, courageous, and stunning. He'll be smitten."

Suhasini beamed, unaware of Maya's conflicted emotions.

As Maya assisted Suhasini with her attire, their conversation continued. Maya's dual identity weighed heavily: loyal attendant and concealed princess.

" Maya how is this dress. I wear it in last Diwali but..." Then Suhasini put infront of Maya and continue, " You will look beautiful in this, Just take it otherwise I have to throw it. After marriage I can't use the things I wear before my marriage."

Maya's eyes widened as Suhasini offered her the worn Diwali dress, a mix of emotions swirling within:

Gratitude for Suhasini's kindness,
Hurt that her own sister didn't recognize her worth,
Longing for acknowledgment as a princess.

"Thank you, Princess," Maya said, forcing a smile.

Suhasini's blush deepened. "You escort King AdityaRaj, na? Tell me, how does he look?"

Maya's thoughts drifted to AdityaRaj's chiseled features and piercing gaze. "He's... regal, Princess. Strong and confident."

Suhasini's eyes sparkled. "I hope he likes me."

"Regal, strong, and confident," Suhasini repeated, her imagination running wild. "I can already picture him."

Maya, oblivious to the impact of her words, continued, "His piercing gaze commands attention, and his smile can light up the entire room."

Suhasini's heart skipped a beat. She felt an inexplicable connection to the king, as if destiny had brought them together.

"Maya, do you think he'll choose me?" Suhasini asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Maya's expression softened. "Princess, you're an exceptional match for any king. Your intelligence, courage, and beauty will surely captivate him."

Suhasini's face glowed, her hopes soaring.

Unbeknownst to Maya, her words had kindled a flame in Suhasini's heart, strengthening her resolve to win AdityaRaj's hand.

....

As Maya was heading towards her chamber. Oops not chamber just a room with the lehenga Her Suhasini di gave to her. She was lost. Lost in her thought that she didn't notice the approaching figure.

Suddenly, she collided with a sturdy chest, sending her stumbling backward. The dress Suhasini gave her slipped from her grasp, floating to the ground.

Apologgetic eyes met AdityaRaj's piercing gaze. "I'm so sorry, Your Majesty," Maya said, her cheeks flushing.

AdityaRaj's expression softened as he retrieved the dress. "No harm done, Maya. Are you alright?"

Their fingers touched as he handed her the dress, sparking an unexpected jolt.

Maya's pulse quickened. "Y-yes, thank you, Your Majesty."

AdityaRaj's gaze lingered on hers, his voice low. "You're always rushing, aren't you? First, showing me to my chambers, now this."

Maya's smile faltered, unsure how to respond.

AdityaRaj's eyes crinkled at the corners. "Be careful. I wouldn't want you hurt."

Their proximity and his concern sent Maya's heart racing.

Maya take a breathe and rush from there. Control Maya. That man is your sister would be. Why are you so driven for him.

Yes. Yes. You never see man in your life, that's why. Just take a deep breathe and she entered inside her room.

She look at the mattress and chuckled, 'Suhasini di has such a huge and comfortable bed to sleep and here I have just a mattress.'

' Pitashri, arranging A huge Swayamvar for di and here he didn't acknowledge me as his daughter.'

'Queen always made sure to show me that I am just an attendant.'

'It's my mistake that my father did infidelity to queen that I had to pay for the deed he did with my mother.'

'The only hope of my life, my mother also ran away from this kingdom leaving me behind with the royal who always treat me like a mere servant.'

Maya slept crying.
...