The following day, Devansh returned home to Jodhpur, his mind still occupied with thoughts of Ananya. As he entered the grand dining hall for dinner, his entire family was already seated. The opulent room, adorned with rich tapestries and crystal chandeliers, seemed even more vibrant than usual.
His father, Maharaja Rajveer Chauhan, sat at the head of the table, a figure of authority and respect. His mother, Maharani Malini Devi, exuded grace and elegance.
His grandparents, Maharaja Veer Chauhan and Maharani Shanta Devi, were the epitome of wisdom and tradition. His younger brother, Aditya, and his sister, Priya, looked up as he entered, their faces reflecting surprise and curiosity.
"Good evening, yuvraj," Rajveer Chauhan greeted his son, noticing the uncharacteristic softness in his demeanor.
"Good evening, everyone," Devansh replied, his voice calm, almost gentle. He took his seat, a slight smile playing on his lips.
The family exchanged puzzled glances. Devansh was usually intense and often curt, especially when he was deep in thought. But tonight, he seemed... different. As dinner progressed, Devansh's unusual behavior became more apparent. He was lost in his thoughts, not his usual commanding and demanding self. He even smiled occasionally, a sight rarely seen by his family.
His grandfather, Maharaja Veer Chauhan, couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. "Yuvraj, you seem... different today. Is something on your mind?"
Devansh looked up, his expression serious but calm. "Just business matters, Dadaji," he said, evading the deeper truth. He paused, then continued, "I have something to discuss with all of you."
The family leaned in, intrigued. Devansh was not known for sharing his plans lightly.
"I met a family during my trip to Raigarh," he began, his tone steady. "I believe it would be beneficial for both our families if we were to form an alliance through marriage."
Maharani Malini Devi's eyes widened in surprise and delight. "Marriage? With whom, Yuvraj?"
"Princess Ananya of Raigarh," Devansh said, his voice unwavering. "I would like you tobsend a marriage proposal for an arranged marriage."
The dining hall fell silent for a moment, the family absorbing the news. Then, a wave of joy and congratulations erupted.
"This is wonderful news!" Maharani Shanta Devi exclaimed, her eyes shining with happiness. "Ananya is a lovely girl. We are very proud of your decision, beta."
His father, Maharaja Rajveer Chauhan, nodded approvingly. "I met her during our visit. She is a fine young woman, and her family is honorable. I will inform them of our proposal tomorrow."
Aditya and Priya exchanged excited glances. "Congratulations, Bhaiya," Aditya said, a broad smile on his face. "This is truly a great match."
"Yes, congratulations, Bhaiya," Priya echoed, her eyes filled with curiosity about the girl who had captured her brother's interest.
Devansh nodded, acknowledging their congratulations but remaining composed. Inside, however, he felt a sense of anticipation he hadn't experienced in a long time.
Later that evening, as the family continued to discuss the news, Maharani Malini Devi took a moment to speak privately with Devansh. "You seem different, Yuvraj," she said gently, placing a hand on his arm. "Is this truly what you want?"
Devansh met his mother's gaze, seeing the concern in her eyes. "Yes, Maa. I've thought about this deeply. Ananya is someone special. I believe this alliance will be beneficial for both our families and... I feel something for her that I haven't felt before."
Malini Devi smiled, her eyes softening. "I trust your judgment, Beta. Just know that we are here for you, whatever you decide."
The next morning, true to his word, Maharaja Rajveer Chauhan called King Vikram Singh of Raigarh. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, he broached the subject.
"Vikram Singh ji, i want to discuss something with you," Rajveer Chauhan said, his voice steady. "We would like to propose a marriage between my elder son and your daughter, Princess Ananya."
King Vikram Singh was momentarily taken aback, though he hid his surprise well. "This is indeed a significant proposal, Rajveer ji," he replied. "I will discuss this with my family and get back to you with our decision."
As he hung up the phone, Vikram Singh pondered the proposal. He had noticed the interest Devansh had shown in his daughter during their dinner, but this formal proposal was unexpected. He came to the living room.
Rajeshwari Devi, Raghav, and Sarika gathered in the living room, their expressions curious. "What is it, Vikram?" Rajeshwari Devi asked.
"I just received a call from Maharaja Rajveer Chauhan," Vikram Singh began. "They have proposed a marriage alliance between Devansh and our Ananya."
The room fell silent, the family processing the news. Rajeshwari Devi was the first to speak. "Ananya and Devansh? That is quite unexpected, but also a very good proposal. They are very good family and also same like us."
Raghav nodded thoughtfully. "Devansh seemed very respectful and considerate during our meeting. I was impressed by him."
Sarika, ever the practical one, voiced her concerns. "But what about Devansh's reputation for being strict and short-tempered? Ananya is gentle and kind-hearted. Will she be able to handle his temperament?"
Vikram Singh sighed, understanding Sarika's apprehension. "That is a valid concern, Sarika. We need to talk to Ananya about this. Her opinion matters the most in this decision."
Meanwhile, upstairs in her room, Ananya was lost in her thoughts. She replayed her brief interactions with Devansh in her mind, recalling his intense gaze and the unexpected moments of warmth she had glimpsed beneath his aloof exterior. When her mother called her downstairs, she felt a mixture of excitement and uncertainty.
"Ananya, we have something important to discuss with you," Rajeshwari Devi said gently as Ananya entered the room.
"What is it, Maa?" Ananya asked, her voice tinged with nervousness.
Vikram Singh took her hand, guiding her to sit beside him. "Ananya, we received a marriage proposal for you."
"kya, marriage. But papa mera to abhi college bhi pura nhi hua. Itni jaldi kyo."
"beta the proposal come From Maharaja Rajveer Chauhan's family. They wish to arrange a marriage between you and Devansh."
Ananya's heart skipped a beat. "Devansh?" she whispered, her cheeks flushing.
"Yes, beta," Rajeshwari Devi said gently. "Tum is rishta ka bare mai kya sochti ho beta?"
Ananya hesitated, her mind racing. She remembered Devansh's commanding presence and the rumors she had heard about his temper. Yet, she also recalled the moments of kindness and respect he had shown during their brief encounters. "He seemed... different," she finally said, choosing her words carefully. "I'm not sure how I feel about this, Maa."
Rajeshwari Devi nodded understandingly. "We understand, beta. This is a big decision. But we need to know your thoughts. Can you see yourself with Devansh?"
Ananya took a deep breath, her gaze thoughtful. "I... I believe he has a good heart underneath it all," she admitted. "But his temper... I'm not sure if I can handle it."
Sarika spoke up, her concern evident. "Ananya, Devansh's temper is well-known. You are gentle and kind. Will you be happy in such a marriage?"
Vikram Singh placed a reassuring hand on Ananya's shoulder. "We will support whatever decision you make, Ananya. Take your time to think about it."
Ananya nodded gratefully, feeling the weight of the decision ahead of her. "Thank you, Papa," she murmured softly.
Meanwhile, in Jodhpur, Devansh felt a sense of calm and determination. He had taken the first step toward his goal. Now, he could only wait and hope that Ananya and her family would accept his proposal.
As night fell, both families found themselves pondering the future. Devansh, usually so controlled and driven by business, now felt a personal stake in the outcome of this proposal.
Ananya's family, while honored by the proposal, had to consider the implications and Ananya's feelings. The first move had been made, setting the stage for a decision that would change both their lives forever.