Chapter 34 – "Life Partner"

For the past few days, Draupadi had been staying at Skand's house, observing his work and getting to know his family. She was learning how he managed his trade, his products, and how everyone around him respected his way of life.

One afternoon, she was examining something intently, completely focused.

Just then, a familiar voice interrupted with playful sarcasm.

Skand (smirking):"What's so interesting in that? You've been staring at it like it holds the secrets of the universe."

He was showing her one of his newest creations—a unique makeup kit that he had recently designed.

Draupadi (excited):"A product like this—something no one's seen in the market, one that even convinced the Maharani to support a treaty... who wouldn't want it? If I wear it, will it make you fall for me even more?"

Skand (teasingly):"To be honest, I don't need this makeup to be attracted to you. To me, you're the most beautiful woman in the world—makeup or not."

Draupadi (blushing):"Oh, stop it, you flirt."

She giggled and quickly turned away, her cheeks flushed.

Skand (murmuring to himself):"If I do it, it's flirting… but if you do it, it's fine?"

He laughed softly to himself.

At the Park – Evening

It was evening. Light clouds drifted in the sky, and a cool breeze swept across the quiet park. Skand and Draupadi were walking together, enjoying the peaceful air.

A sudden gust of wind blew a few strands of Draupadi's hair across her eyes. Gently, Skand reached out and tucked them behind her ear. Then, with a small smile, he plucked a flower nearby and carefully placed it in her hair.

Draupadi (thinking, shyly smiling):"Skand... you're the best husband anyone could ask for."

Skand:"Do you want something to eat? Wait here, I'll bring us something."

He walked away, leaving Draupadi seated on a bench near the path.

Moments later, a young man approached her.

Young Master (thinking):Wow… she's stunning. I'll make her my concubine. She'll be mine.

Young Master (confidently):"Hey girl, do you know who I am? I'm the son of Durgan Kumar."

Draupadi (thinking, alert):Durgan Kumar? That's one of the high-ranking ministers in Emperor Ashoka's court…

Draupadi (politely):"Namaste, Young Master. How may I assist you?"

Young Master (with a twisted grin):"I want you to marry me. After that, you'll have everything you desire."

Young Master (smirking internally):Let's see how she says no now. The moment girls hear my father's name, they fall over themselves to say yes.

Draupadi (firmly, annoyed):"Sorry, but I already have a fiancé—and I love him very much."

Young Master (shocked, thinking):Did she just reject me? This arrogant girl…

Young Master (angrily):"How dare you! I'm offering you marriage—a favor—and you dare say no?"

Suddenly, he grabbed Draupadi's wrist, trying to pull her toward him.

Draupadi (furious, shouting):"Let go of me! I don't need your favors!"

He held her tightly, forcing her to struggle against him as he tried to drag her.

To Be Continued...