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Avantika sat nervously in her room, her thoughts racing. She had known this moment would come, but now that Reyansh's royal family had actually arrived in Mumbai, the reality of it all felt overwhelming.

The regal presence of the Jodhpur royal family was both intimidating and awe-inspiring. She was ready in baby pink saree pacing back and forth in her room, trying to calm her nerves, but it wasn't working.

"Avantika, come on, it's time," Sneha's calm voice called from the door.

Sneha, her bhabhi, always knew how to keep things light. Avantika nodded, taking a deep breath as she stood up. "I'm ready," she said, trying to mask her anxiety.

Sneha smiled and led her downstairs. As they descended, the sound of polite conversation and laughter drifted up from the living room.

When Avantika entered the room, she was immediately struck by the grandeur of the gathering. Reyansh's family stood as a unified presence, dignified and poised.

Reyansh was talking with her brother Yug, and Avantika couldn't help but observe him carefully. He stood tall, his posture regal and confident, with an air of quiet authority. There was a sense of responsibility in the way he held himself, something that made him stand out even among his impressive family.

Sneha gave her a gentle nudge, and Avantika moved forward, her heart beating faster. She made her way toward Sayli holding a tray of refreshment, who were already in conversation with Reyansh's family.

Everyone's eye was on her which made her more nervous. She tried to stay composed and place the tray on the center of table. As she placed the tray she moved towards his grandparents and bend down to touch their feet.

But before she can touch their feet Kamini held her shoulder stopping her. Avantika was confused by her action and her overthinking started. Did I do something wrong? Where as Rathi family along with her was confused too.

She was bought into reality by Kamini's voice. "Laxmi's never touch feets, so don't." Kamini said with small smile. Avantika looked at her then and Raghavendra who nodded his head agreeing with Kamini.

Avantika smiled politely and joined her hands and greeted them with 'Jai shree Krishna' which they reciprocated and blessed her. She greeted his parents and Chacha-chachi in same way.

Radha greeted Avantika with a hug whereas Vinesh and Yash smiled and greeted her with hello. All this time Reyansh who was sitting beside Yug was just observing her.

The baby pink saree. The light makeup. Her pair of jhumkas. Her long hairs styled with a single claw clip. Her baby hairs falling on her face. Khol in her eyes. Bangles adoring her right wrists while a bracelet on her left wrist which he noticed it was same as yesterday. He was mesmerized by her beauty but he composed himself again.

After greeting everyone Avantika served tea for everyone. As she was passing the cup of tea to Reyansh when Radha's voice stopped her. "Bhabhi, bhai chai nahi pete."

Avantika looked at Radha then at cup of tea in her hand and then at Reyansh who was already looking at her. "Mai aapke liye aabhi coffee Bana Kar lati hu." She placed the cup of tea on table and was about to turn when she felt some holding her wrist.

She look at her wrist then at person holding her wrist. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw Reyansh holding her wrist stopping her. Seeing the scene unfold Radha,Vinesh and Yash shared a glance while their lips curled up in a mischievous smile. Rathi family too shared a look of amusement look at Reyansh who was never interested in any of girls and was now holding her wrist.

"You don't need to make anything else. I'll have tea." He said losing his grip on her hand and taking the cup of tea. As he sip on tea whole Singhania family shared and amused look or more likely shocked look to see their son who hated tea was now sipping on it.

Avantika stood beside her bhabhi without any word. His behavior somewhere in her heart gave hopes that this relationship can work out.

The room fell into a hushed surprise, but Yash was the first to break the silence with a laugh.

"Reyansh, I never thought I'd see the day when you'd drink tea voluntarily," he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Reyansh raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "There's a first time for everything, isn't there?" His calm, composed demeanor didn't falter, but the way his gaze briefly flicked toward Avantika didn't go unnoticed by anyone in the room.

Radha leaned toward Vinesh, whispering loud enough for most to hear, "Bhai must really be trying to impress bhabhi."

"Clearly," Yash added with a low chuckle, earning a playful glare from Reyansh.

Reyansh didn't knew when he mixed himself with the people around. His cold aura was settled somewhere and he was interacting like a normal person interested in marriage.

Kiara skipped into the room, her curious eyes scanning the gathering. She was always full of energy and had a knack for asking the most straightforward and often unexpected questions. Her gaze landed on Avantika, who was still standing near her bhabhi, trying to compose herself amidst the attention.

"Why is Avi bua all dressed up in a saree?" Kiara’s voice rang out, cutting through the conversation. "Is there something special today?"

The room paused for a moment, everyone turning to look at the little girl who had just entered. Avantika smiled softly, trying to hide her nervousness, but Kiara was not one to be easily deterred.

Kiara bounced over to Avantika, her little hand tugging at her aunt's saree. “Avi bua, yeh sab kaun hai? Aur aap itne acche kyun lag rahe ho? Aaj koi festival hai?"

Avantika chuckled nervously, trying to explain, but before she could say anything, Yug, who had been quietly observing, stepped in with a smile.

“Only a child can ask the most innocent questions,” he said, his voice filled with affection as he walked toward Kiara. He crouched down to her level, looking her in the eye. “Kiara, this is something very important for your bua. And no, it’s not a festival. But sometimes, when people are about to do something very important, they dress up in a special way.”

Kiara, her expression serious now, nodded thoughtfully, though she clearly didn’t fully understand. “Oh, I see! So, it’s like when I wear my princess dress for my birthday party!”

Yug smiled warmly at her. “Exactly, Kiara. Just like that. It’s something special, but it’s not a party.”

Kiara looked at Avantika with a mix of curiosity and admiration, then returned to her energetic self. “Okay! I still don’t know what’s going on, but you look pretty, Avi bua!”

Avantika laughed, grateful for the little girl's innocence, and ruffled Kiara's hair as she playfully twirled away, her attention already drifting to something else.

Reyansh, who had been observing the interaction with a subtle smile, couldn’t help but be charmed by Kiara’s unfiltered questions and the warmth that filled the room as everyone relaxed a little more, following the child’s lead.

Avantika, feeling the heat of all the attention, lowered her gaze and busied herself by adjusting the edges of her saree. Sneha noticed her discomfort and stepped in to redirect the conversation.

"So, how was the drive to Mumbai?" she asked, addressing Kamini and Aaradhya. "I hope it wasn't too exhausting."

"It was smooth, thankfully," Aaradhya replied warmly. "Reyansh made sure everything was planned perfectly. He's meticulous about these things."

Pratap chuckled. "He didn't have a choice. Your city traffic has a charm of its own."

The room lightened with laughter, and the conversations flowed more naturally. Avantika noticed how easygoing and kind Reyansh's family seemed, despite their royal stature. Kamini asked Sneha about her work, while Aaradhya shared stories of Jodhpur. Radha and Avantika bonded instantly over their shared love for fashion, and Yash joined Raghav in a friendly discussion about business strategies. But all of them were supperly bonded with Kiara due to her non stop babbing from one person to another.

Avantika observed Reyansh's behavior. 'Is he the same person I met yesterday? No definitely not. He is not the same. He was being jerk yesterday and today he is totally different. Kuch toh dal mai Kala hai...' She thought

(A/n : Puri dal hi kali hai🫥...aage aage dekho Hota hai kya😎)

❤️

The dining table was elegantly set, thanks to Sneha and Yug's efforts. As everyone settled, Yug insisted on seating Reyansh and Avantika next to each other, despite their obvious hesitation.

"Come on, it's just lunch. You'll survive," he said with a grin, earning a playful nudge from Sneha.

The meal began with polite exchanges, but it wasn't long before the banter started. Radha and Vinesh were quick to pull Reyansh into the conversation.

"So, bhai, what do you think of Mumbai so far?" Radha asked, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Reyansh glanced at Avantika briefly before replying, "It's different from Jodhpur, but it has its own charm."

Yash, not one to miss an opportunity, added, "And now it'll hold even more charm, right, Reyansh?"

Reyansh gave him a pointed look but didn't respond, which only fueled the playful teasing. Avantika, meanwhile, stayed quiet, focusing on her plate but stealing occasional glances at Reyansh.

Aaradhya noticed the dynamic and decided to steer the conversation toward Avantika. "Avantika, Sneha mentioned that you've been managing some charitable projects. That's wonderful. Tell us more about it."

Caught off guard, Avantika hesitated for a moment before replying, "It's nothing extraordinary, really. I just help out where I can, organizing events and ensuring resources reach those in need. It's something I enjoy doing."

Kamini's face lit up. "That's admirable, dear. It's important to have someone with a kind heart in our family. We're lucky to have you."

Avantika smiled shyly, her nerves easing with Kamini's words. Reyansh observed her quietly, somewhere in his heart he felt a forensic feeling but in good way.

The dining table was filled with laughter and chatter as everyone settled in. Kiara, ever the bundle of energy, had found her way to the table and was enthusiastically eyeing each person around her. As soon as she sat down, she looked around the table, her innocent curiosity piqued by the new faces.

"Okay, I think I know everyone here!" she declared loudly, drawing amused glances from all the adults.

"Really?" Radha raised an eyebrow, amused.

"Yep!" Kiara nodded with confidence. "So, you're my Avi bua!" she pointed at Avantika, "because you're just like her!" She gestured at Radha. "You're Radhu bua!"

Radha chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I like that, little one. I’ll be your Radhu bua then!"

Kiara’s gaze shifted to Reyansh, her eyes widening with awe. "And you're... you're the scary uncle!" she said, her voice filled with admiration. "You have muscles and big body!"

Reyansh froze for a moment, not expecting such a blunt and honest assessment. The table broke into laughter, and even he couldn't help but chuckle softly at her straightforwardness.

Kiara didn’t stop there. She pointed at Yash next, grinning. "And you’re Yoo uncle because you gave me chocolates!"

Yash grinned, thoroughly amused. "Well, Yoo uncle it is, then!"

Vinesh was next in line. "You’re V uncle!" Kiara declared with a playful wink. "Your name is too big so you are, V uncle!"

"V it is!" Vinesh laughed, shaking his head at Kiara’s boldness.

Then, with an exaggerated serious tone, Kiara turned to Kamini and Raghavendra. "You’re Bade Dadi and Bade Dadu!" she said with a proud grin. "Because you look like the biggest and wisest!"

Kamini and Raghavendra laughed in surprise, exchanging a warm look. "Bade Dadi and Bade Dadu, huh?" Kamini said with a gentle smile, “That’s quite the honor.”

Kiara’s gaze then shifted to Aaradhya and Pratap. "You’re Dadi and Dada!" she said confidently. "Because you're just like my Dada Dadi at home."

Aaradhya chuckled, her voice warm. "We’re your Dadi and Dada now, huh?"

Kiara then pointed to Archana and Abhiram. "And you’re Chote Dadi and Chote Dada!" she announced proudly. "Because you seem younger than Dadi and Dada."

Abhiram and Archana laughed together, exchanging amused looks. "Chote Dadi and Chote Dada,? That’s a new one!"

As Kiara’s innocent labels filled the room, the adults couldn’t help but smile at how she had effortlessly mixed everyone up with her childlike logic. Even Reyansh, who had always been so composed, couldn't suppress a smile as he looked at Kiara, amused by her perspective of the world.

"I think she’s got us all figured out," Vinesh remarked, smiling fondly at the little girl who had already won everyone’s hearts.

As the meal wound down, Pratap turned to Yug with a serious expression. "I must say, you and your family have done an excellent job raising Avantika. She's truly remarkable."

Yug's pride was evident as he replied, "Thank you, Pratapji. She's the heart of our family. We're confident she'll make a wonderful addition to yours."

Reyansh's grandmother Kamini added, "It's not often you meet someone who fits so seamlessly. I believe this alliance will bring great harmony."

Reyansh, sensing the growing expectations, finally spoke. His tone was steady but held a subtle weight. "Avantika and I are both practical about this arrangement. We understand what's expected of us, and we'll do our best to honor those expectations."

His words surprised everyone, especially Avantika, who hadn't expected him to acknowledge her so openly.

Avantika's thoughts swirled as the guests began to leave. Reyansh caught her eye one last time, giving her a small nod as if to say, We'll figure this out together.

Her heart, despite the practical nature of the alliance, held a flicker of hope. Perhaps this marriage of convenience wouldn't be as cold and distant as she had feared.

As the Singhania family departed, Sneha nudged Avantika. "Looks like you've impressed them!"

Raghav added with a wink, "Just don't forget us common folks when you become royalty."

Avantika smiled, but her mind was already racing with thoughts about what this alliance would mean for her future.

After some talks, Avantika entered her room still thinking about Reyansh's behavior today. It was a good change but a sudden change in his behavior was unable to digest. He was different today. What changed him so much?

❤️

Reyansh with his family was in return journey to Jodhpur. He was in his deep thoughts when he remembered his conversation with Raghavendra who arrived yesterday only due to some charity function.

Flashback

Reyansh was in his hotel room when Raghavendra returned hotel after the charity function. He directly went to meet Reyansh. As he entered Reyansh's room he found him lost in his thoughts. Raghavendra cleared his throat to get Reyansh's attention which he got successful.

"Reyansh, you seem troubled. Did you meet Avantika?" Raghavendra asked walking towards him.

"Yes, Dada ji. I met her. She's... fine. Polite and simple. But I don't understand why we're rushing into this marriage. It's clearly just to fulfill the traditions for my coronation." Reyansh replies at they took their seats on bed.

Raghavendra calmly asked "Hmm. And what impression did you get of her?"

"She's quiet, a bit timid. She seemed nervous, like she didn't belong there." Reyansh replied shrugging his shoulder.

"Did you ask her why?"

Reyansh frowned at his dada ji's question "Why would I? I was polite enough. That's all that matters."

Raghavendra sighs knowing his grandson's behavior and says "Reyansh, let me tell you something about Avantika that you may not know."

Raghavendra continued as Reyansh placed his head on his Dadaji's lap, "Avantika is not just a girl we chose for you because of tradition. She's someone who's faced life's harshest realities and still carries herself with grace." He said stroking his grandson's hairs.

Reyansh raised his brows in confusion while Raghavendra continued in soft voice "She lost her parents at a young age. She had a brother who disappered like thin air when she was 13. Since then, she's been living with her bua's family. But do you know what her life there is like?"

"No, and why should it matter? She has a family, doesn't she?" Reyansh replied

Raghavendra says firmly, "A family in name, Reyansh. Her bua and her husband see her as a burden, treating her as little more than an outsider in their home. Despite this, she never complains. She carries herself with dignity and works hard to prove her worth, even when she shouldn't have to."

Reyansh pausing after this new information, he sat straight as he got up from Raghavendr's lap. "She's... been treated poorly?

"Yes. And yet, she's remained kind, strong, and selfless. Do you know why she seemed timid and out of place? Because she's never been given a place to call her own. For the first time in her life, she's being brought into a family-not because of obligation, but because she deserves it." Raghavendra replies.

"I didn't realize..." Reyansh said lowering his his gaze.

"Reyansh, you've been given everything-a loving family, respect, power. But love isn't about status or duty. It's about seeing someone's pain, their struggles, and making them feel safe. She just want love in her life." Raghavendra says patting his head.

"I was cold to her. I didn't even try to understand her." Reyansh said remembering how he talked about her role and responsibility without even discussing anything about themselves.

"It's not too late to start. Avantika doesn't need a king. She needs someone who can make her feel at home, someone who can see her as more than a means to an end. Be that man, Reyansh. Not for the throne, but for her." Dadaji said pulling his out of his thoughts.

Reyansh replied nodding slowly, "You're right, Dada ji. I've been so focused on the responsibility of the throne that I forgot about the responsibility of being a partner. I'll make it right."

"After hearing her story don't pity on her. She needs love not pity." Raghavendra remarked.

"Never worry Dada ji. She will now get all the love. But for that I need time to understand her and change myself for her." Reyansh said again placing his head on his Dadaji's lap. For the world he is cold and merciless the great Reyansh Singhania but for his Dada ji he is still his little grandson who once roamed whole house only to find his dadaji who was at office.

"Take your time. But, keep her happy." Raghavendra replies stroking his grandson's hairs.

Flashback ends

❤️❤️

Back in Avantika's room

The dim lighting and soft hum of the air conditioner added a cozy vibe to the room as Avantika, Siya, and Raghav sat cross-legged on the bed. Siya was staring at Avantika with her mouth slightly open, trying to process everything she was hearing. Raghav sat at the foot of the bed, smirking as he recalled the day's events.

Siya dramatically stated, "Wait, wait, ruk zara. Are you telling me that the same Reyansh Singhania who treated you like a business deal yesterday was sitting there sipping chai and acting like Mister Perfect Husband Material today?

Avantika sighing and says, "Haan Siya, wahi toh. His behavior was... so different. Mujhe samajh hi nahi aa raha ki ek raat mein aisa kya badal gaya."

Raghav said grinning, "Puri dal hi kali thi."

Siya said leaning forward eagerly, "Arre haan! Mujhe details chahiye, full masala version. Start from when you entered the room."

Avantika started with shaking her head, "Siya, I was so nervous. Sneha bhabhi had to practically push me downstairs. Aur jab maine room mein entry ki, everyone was staring at me."

"Haan, ekdum Miss India wali entry thi! Mujhe laga background mein music bajega." Raghav teased her.

"Raghav, stop it! Tum toh bas wahan baithke mazaak udate rahe." Avantika said glaring at him.

Siya interrupted, "Oho, ignore him. Then what?"

Avantika continued, "Phir maine unki dadi aur dadaji ke paas jaake pair chhoone ki koshish ki, aur tab... "

"Tab, drama shuru! Unki dadi ne rokh liya and said, "Laxmi's never touch feet." Raghav said cutting her words.

Siya says in genuine shock, "Kya? That's so... regal!"

Avantika said nodding her head, "Haan, and then unhone mujhe bless kiya. But all that time, I could feel Reyansh's gaze on me."

"Matlab, Banda pura tumhe dekh raha tha! Baby pink saree, jhumke, khol in your eyes-all noted." Raghav said smirking.

Siya states grinning, "Reyansh toh gaya! But wait, what about that tea scene you mentioned earlier?"

Avantika started hesitantly, "Haan, woh... Radha ne kaha ki Reyansh chai nahi peete. So, I offered to make him coffee, and just as I turned-

Raghav says dramatically, "Dramatic pause. Reyansh ne Avantika ka haath pakda!"

Siya lean forward gasping, clutching her pillow, "Kya!? Haath pakda? Reyansh Singhania ne? The great Reyansh Singhania!!"

Avantika blused at Siya's statement, "Siya, bas karo! He just stopped me and said, 'You don't need to make anything else. I'll have tea.' "

"Matlab jo banda chai ko haath nahi lagata tha, ab tumhare liye chai pi raha hai? Bhai, yeh toh love story level 101 hai!" Siya remarked laughing.

"Mujhse shaadi karoge vibes aa gaye the shayad." Raghav mocked remembering the scene.

Avantika threw cushion at him, "Tum dono bas mazaak udao."

"Arre nahi, seriously, Avantika. Yeh toh major character development lag raha hai. Abhi aur bolo!" Siya's tone was now some serious but not completely.

Avantika said thoughtfully, "Phir lunch ke time, Yug bhaiya ne mujhe uske paas bitha diya. Reyansh was... normal. Like he wasn't the same cold person from yesterday.

"Haan, aur Radha, Vinesh aur Yash toh full masti mood mein the. Radha was teasing him nonstop. But Reyansh was cool about it." Raghav added.

"Wow. And unke parents?" Siya asked curiously.

Avantika said, " His parents and grandparents were so kind. They genuinely seemed happy about this alliance. Kamini dadi even praised me for my charity work."

Raghav said mocking "Wahi toh! Laxmi aa rahi hai ghar mein. Sab khush hai."

Siya asked nudging Avantika, "Okay, but real question-what do you think about all this?"

Avantika paused for a moment before answering, "Mujhe abhi bhi samajh nahi aa raha ki woh badle kyun. But... aaj jo Reyansh maine dekha, if that's the real him, then maybe... maybe this can work."

Siya beamed with happiness, "Arre wah! Hope ki light aa gayi!"

"Bas, ab dulha-dulhan ka naam leke card chhapne ki der hai." Raghav said teasingly.

"Raghav, tum na..." Avantika trailed off.

The three friends burst into laughter, and for the first time, Avantika felt the weight of her anxiety lift slightly. The change in Reyansh's behavior still puzzled her, but the comfort of her friends gave her the courage to navigate this unexpected journey.

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Hey loveliss!!

How was the chapter?

Turning point at which Reyansh realise his mistake. Agar aapki expectations thi ki mai use khadus aur cold batau toh sorry for your disappointment.🤧

By the way...how were the names gives by Kiara.

Who was her brother?

Where did he disappered?

So many questions but as the chapters dig in you'll get to know. So vote to encourage me.

Do vote and comment ❤️

Bye...!!