"Stop being so..." Rama hissed between gritted teeth as she trailed off.
She moved closer to her, examining her face for a second before saying "Why are you blushing?"
Malika stepped back, lowering her head as she tried to conceal her reddened face.
The innocent girl fidgeted with the edge of her dress, her wide eyes darting around nervously as her Rama's stern gaze settled on her.
A faint flush colored her cheeks, betraying the unease that churned within her. Her hands clasped and unclasped, fingers interlocking and then pulling apart in a repetitive, anxious rhythm.
"I have to go feed the king's pets, it's evening already." Malika said in a rushed tone as she fluttered her lashes hysterically.
"You're avoiding my question, Malika?" Rama called, her tone stern and hard making Malika uneasy.