Trisha POV-

The Photo

No That Photo was taken by me , what if someone came to know about it.

Oh.. nooo ishaanvi is also here, she will beat me for good today.

Please please how can this be done like this, the angle the lighting everything looks wrong with it. Someone edited it and now presenting it like Roshni Di and Yuvraj were engaged in intimate moment.

I have to make everything right.

I tightened my grip on Mummy ' hand.

Mummy- Trishu why are you sweating so much, bacha what happened?
She asked me with concerned filled tone.

But i can't listen to her anymore, my eyes drifted towards papa, he didn't looked shocked or flabbergasted like i guessed instead he  smriked  and went towards Hukum Saksham and shook his hands secretly so that no one noticed them, but i did.
         

And now i want answers.
How dare he, use me as a pawn to destroy Two lives and worst of all ruining the reputation and name of Roshni di.

I was about to made my way towards papa but.

                          !!SLAP!!

OH No , did roshni di just slapped Yuvraj
The matter has completely gone out of my  hands now.

I quickly ran towards papa- I think we need to talk.

(TAUJI) Papa-  I don't think it's the right time for it.
He replied to me, while shooing me away.

I clenched my fist and tried to control my breath- Papa If not now then, i think i have to go  Yuvraj to have a conversation with him about the photos.

His face lost all it's colors - You won't,  let's go their we can have talk.

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At silent corridor

— I couldn't believe what I was seeing. The photo of Roshni  di and Yuvraj , the one I took under your insistence, was all over social media. It was supposed to be a keepsake, a memory. But now, it had turned into a weapon of humiliation, and I couldn't shake the image of Roshni di's  stinging slap across yuvraj's face from my mind.

I lashed out to my Father.
My heart pounding with a mix of anger and betrayal.

- How could you let this happen?You said it was just for memories, but now it's ruining lives!
I demanded, my voice quivering with emotion.

He looked up at me, his eyes wide with surprise—or was it feigned innocence?

-Trishna, I don't know how it got out. Maybe someone stole it. I would never do something like this on purpose.
he said, his voice breaking as he attempted to gain my sympathy. He put a hand to his forehead, feigning distress.

I wanted to believe him, I really did. But a part of me couldn't help but feel manipulated. His tears, his sorrowful tone—were they genuine, or just another act to deflect blame? I searched his face for any sign of sincerity, but all I saw were the shadows of regret and evasion.

— Do you really expect me to believe that? You pressured me into taking that picture, and now you're telling me it just magically found its way online? And also i saw your facial expression and hanshake with hukum Saksham.
I shot back, my voice rising despite the knot in my throat.

He sighed heavily, as if carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.

—Trishna, please understand. I would never want to hurt anyone, especially not Roshni or Yuvraj . If I could take it back, I would. And hukum -sa ke sath mera business deal Chal raha hai bas uske khushi main.

His words hung in the air, and I felt my resolve waver. Was he truly remorseful, or was this just another layer of his manipulation? I didn't know what to believe anymore, and that uncertainty gnawed at me.

- It better be business deal or if i find out it was something else i swear on your name papa , kritagya will know everything from me.

This was the last thing i wanted to do in my life,  threatening my own father.
As I stood there, torn between anger and compassion, I realized that regardless of his intentions, the damage was done. Now, it was up to me to find a way to make it right.

- I will find out from that Photo studio, Wahi maine photos diye the maybe someone took it from there.
He gave me an apologetic face.

Hah.. i can't even look at his face right now.

■■■

After watching the way they both are  exchanged the rings , i can tell deep down the gap between become larger now. How funny life is na just a moment ago they were starring into eachother with love filled eyes and dancing, and now here the spark and shy glances is nowhere  to see.

....

I spotted Krtigya was talking to one of his maybe business partner. I think i should tell him, i can't  take it anymore.

— Trisha where are you going, badi maa is searching for you.
I heard roshni di's voice from behind me.

No i can't face her anymore, it was my fault all my fault and she is the one who is going through hell.

All because of me.

I am feeling lost

I am feeling anxious

And  worst of all i am feeling disgust from myself

I felt  hand on my shoulder,  and roshni di's face come in my view.

— Kya hua Trisha, all okay?
She said her voice was now low maybe trying to distract herself from all the events of today.

— Di.... d.. dii i..
I am .. am sorry.
I murmured under my breath.

She arched her eyebrows- What?

Ishaanvi stepped beside her - What are you doing here di ,  papa is searching for you. Let’s go back home. Today was really tough on you and you ms. Foxy don't you dare to ruin my di's mood.
She gave me a fierce glare.

— Ishu tujhe kyu lagta hai main hamesha di ke sath galat krungi?
I was absolutely confused about her behavior,  she  always  behaves rude towards me.

Ishaanvi- ohh agar bhool gayi hai toh yaad dila du? Jab bhi papa ice cream sabke liye laa te the , you were the one jo hum dono ka hisse ka bhi kha jati thi and the worst whenever we had fun playing outside you were the one jo dadi ko complaint karke hume wapis ghar bula deti thi. Not only you even your father is like a poison in our life. Why don't you just go to hell.

Roshni di stopped her- Ishu bas kar, today i had seen enough  drama , don't want more now.

She sounds tired from all this.

- ishaanvi mujhe nahi pata tha ki vo mera nahi hai khane ko and tu mujhe apne sath khilati nahi thi that's why i have to tell dadi. But that was past now-

Ishaanvi—That's right. When we grow up, our families often tell us, “Oh, that was all in the past.” However, the wounds we receive in childhood never truly fade or heal; they linger on like haunting reminders of a nightmare.
She was saying all this while tears were falling down from her eyes.

I tried to reconcile with her lots of time but she always push me away.

- Okay, think whatever you feel like.
I was done with her complaints now.

I went outside to properly breath just for once.

Just for once  i wish my past live actions doesn't affect my present and future but no  it always knocking on the door.

I just want to escape from all of this. Yes, I was a bully and a rude kid, but that's what Papa always encouraged me to be, if I wanted his attention.

He was the one who planted the seeds of discord between Ishu and Roshni Di. But by the time I realized how wrong I was, it was already too late.

                                     ◇

Authors pov -

Trisha outfit -

Trisha has pear body shape.

Trisha saree adorned in a shimmering, nude-toned sequin saree

Trisha sat there, a solitary figure of grace and sorrow, her shoulders trembling slightly with each silent sob. Despite the sadness that enveloped her, she seemed to radiate an inner strength, a resilience that only made her more captivating.

Trisha, with her pear-shaped body gracefully wrapped in a shimmering saree, sat by the palace's water fountain. The saree's fabric caught the light, creating a cascade of sparkles that mimicked the stars above.

ROYAL PALACE WATER FOUNTAIN

Kritgaya couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sight before him. Trisha was a vision of ethereal beauty, wrapped in a golden shade saree that shimmered like liquid sunshine under the moonlight. Her backless blouse added a touch of daring elegance, revealing the delicate curve of her spine. The ensemble was as regal and timeless as the ancient royal palace that loomed in the background.

Kritgaya paused for a moment, captivated by the scene before him. The juxtaposition of Trisha's radiant attire against her tear-streaked face tugged at his heartstrings. He wondered what could have caused such sadness in a place so grand and beautiful.

Approaching cautiously, he cleared his throat softly to announce his presence.

— Trisha,Is everything alright?
He called gently, his voice carrying a warmth that he hoped would offer some comfort.

She turned towards him, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears in that moment, surrounded by the serenity of the night and the timeless elegance of the palace, Kritgaya realized his heart is beating loudly after witnessing the scene.

 As he drew closer, the world seemed to fade away.

—Kritgaya… I didn't hear you approach.
Startled, Trisha looked up, dabbing her eyes quickly. she replied, attempting to muster a smile but failing to hide her distress.

-You seem troubled. Would you like to talk about it?
He sat beside her, careful to maintain a respectful distance.

-It's just... sometimes, the weight of parents expectations feels overwhelming.
Trisha hesitated, the vulnerability in her eyes deepening. But the sincerity in Kritgaya's gaze urged her to open up.

—You're not alone, Trisha. Sometimes, sharing the burden can make it lighter.

Kritgaya nodded, understanding that even the most beautiful moments could be shadowed by personal struggles.

— Waise pata nahi tha aap itne mature hogaye hai Kunwar-sa.
She said while giving him small smile.

-Oh please don't call me Kunwar-sa,  you were my classmate , my academic rival . It feel too odd to hear that from you.
He replied to her while playing with water in the fountain.

-I.. i have something to tell you.
Trisha feels like if she didn't share it with him, she will have to live with this guilt forever.

Kritagya leaned towards her and nodded his head.

- Th...that pic..picture of di and Yuvraj.
She was stuttering while saying the truth.

But something  caught his eyes just behind her.

— wait you wanted to drink fruit juice right, oh how idiot of me. Come let's go inside, i will call the waiter.
He told her while changing the topic.

She looked at him bewildered and he alert her with his eyes, she finally caught the act and play along.

Now they are inside one room
Kritagya was waiting for her explanation and she was fidgeting with her saree pallu showing sign of anxiety  and stress.

Kritagya- I know you have panic attacks and anxiety attacks. There is no rush you can tell me when you feel like it.
He assured her.

- vo... voh pictures i don't know how it went viral but i am sorry.
She was apologising.

Kritagya- Yeah i know , kind of big blow on our name but this petty scandals is not strong enough to shake our name and reputation and also bhabi is not at fault but the one who took the picture and misuse it.
He was angry and right now ready to find and teach a lesson to  that person behind this whole scene.

Trisha gulped looking at him , now her stressed is reaching to high level.

Krtigya outfit-

This moss green kurta, with its intricate paisley embroidery and subtle shimmer of beads, fit Kritagya like a second skin, accentuating his muscular frame.

It was a testament to the traditions he cherished, yet with a modern edge that spoke of quietconfidence.

This wasn't just an outfit; it was a canvas, ready to be painted with the moments we would share.

- But why are you apologizing , its not your fault.
He looked at her.

- It was  me , i am sorry. I just wanted to capture that beautiful scene and gift it to Roshni di personally but i don't know how it got out.
She was murmuring to him while she get down on her knees.

- what?...it ..it was you?
He was shocked.

She was crying loudly while her hands were shaking and then she passed out.

Kritagya- Trisha...trisha wake up...

Black out.
Trisha was taken care by one of the house helps and was informed about her condition to her mother.

From that day trisha was just thinking about Kritagya.
He didn't responded nor he came to check on her.
When she woke up, she was in her home.

Then comes wedding day at Royal palace.

Kritagya suddenly comes to Trisha and took her to silent corridor.

Kritagya- Trisha listen to what i am about to say.

Tisha - what?

Kritagya- My .. my brother  bhai-sa runaway from the wedding and now my family reputation and Roshni bhabi's family reputation is on the line.
He was patting hard and told her all of this in one breathe.

Trisha's Grey eyes widened - What are you saying Kunwar-sa?
She was baffled.

-Yes and now only you and i can save the both  families name.
Kritagya told her.

Just then all the Royal family and Gupta Family members come to them.

Dada ji - What are you saying Kritagya!! SAMRAT BHAAG GAYE?
He shouted at him.

Nayak comes infront of him to protect his baby brother- i can explain,  it’s because of all of you. Everyone put pressure on them to get married early and now he runway to rebel against all of you.

Roshni dadi- Jab mujhe pata chala , maine Roshni aur ishaanvi ko ghar bhej diya, first that Photo scandal and now this. I can't tolerate anymore. Now i am breaking the alliance with Royal family.
She said and didn't wait for a second.

Roshni father and mother followed her without saying anything.

Dadi-sa - Now our Suryavanshi name will be ruined.
She was scared for her royal lineage.

Kritagya paced the length of the veranda, his mind racing with the weight of his plan. He had always been the responsible one, the pillar upon which his family leaned, and now, with his brother  yuvraj Samrat having fled on the eve of his wedding, the burden fell squarely on his shoulders.

He turned to face Trisha, who stood silently, her expression a mix of confusion and apprehension.

—Trisha i know this isn't what you planned, and it's far from ideal, but we have to think about the bigger picture. Our families' reputations are at stake, and we can't let bhai-sa  impulsive decision ruin it all

His voice steady but urgent.

-You're asking me to marry you? Just like that?
Trisha's eyes widened, her thoughts a jumble of emotions. Her voice trembled with disbelief.

-It’s not just about us, Trisha. It’s about preserving our families honor. I know this isn’t how you imagined your wedding day, but together, we can salvage this. We can turn this disaster into something positive.
Kritagya nodded, stepping closer.

— But what about love, Kritagya? What about what we truly want?
Trisha hesitated, her heart torn between duty and personal desires.

— Love can grow, Trisha. It may not be there now, but I promise to respect and cherish you. We can build a life together, a life that honors our families and gives us both a chance at happiness.

Kritagya took her hands in his, his gaze earnest.

Trisha father- No i will not allow it, how can she marry just like this.Hukum-sa you say something.

He turned towards saksham, who was in deep thoughts

Skasham-  Is waqt parivaar ki ijjat bachana sabse jyada jaruri hai. And about Trisha, she is an amazing girl and i know she is perfect fit for  Kritagya.

He smiled while his  not so good intentions were hidden behind it.

Trisha father mouth hunged open, he can't just let her go in Royal family like this.

- But-
He began but his voice cut short when Kritagya suddenly hugged him.

- I know hone wale sasur-ji aap apni beti se bahut pyaar karte hai, magar aaj bhi maine vo Marks and wounds nahi bhula jo maine trisha ke hathon mein dekha tha past main, if you want to live peacefully just say yes or i will show you real hell.
He threatened him.

The colour on his face was gone, then he looked at trisha and nodded giving his approval to marriage.

Trisha mother was silently crying but she just now  seen the dedication and truth in Kritgaya's words. Now she also given her approval.

For a moment, silence enveloped them, the weight of the decision resting heavily in the air. Trisha searched Kritagya's eyes for sincerity, for any hint of deceit. What she saw was a man determined to do right by his family and by her, despite the circumstances.

-Alright, Kritagya. Let’s do this. For our families.
Finally, Trisha nodded, a soft sigh escaping her lips.
And with that, a new chapter began, one that neither had anticipated but both were willing to write together.

As Kritagya adjusted the collar, a faint smile touched his lips, a silent acknowledgment of the beautiful chaos his heart was about to embrace.  

- Now you are  in my  hands and i have no intention of letting you go, my rabbit.

He said to himself as he filled her Hair partition with sindoor.

Word counts- 3K

Fin..

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Wedding night

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So now what will happen in the story.

Why Samrat runaway?

What is Trisha Father is hiding?