Krishna raised his eyebrow looking at Devashree.

"What did you do Priye?"

Radha answered."So It went something like this...

Radha and Ayan were within the serene confines of Mahadev's temple.

 Radha's heart was heavy with longing and nostalgia as she silently prayed, her thoughts drifting towards Krishna, from whom she had been separated for what seemed like an eternity in her heart.

"Mahadev," Radha whispered softly, her voice barely audible over the chants, "grant me the strength to endure this separation. It has been so long since I last saw Krishna. Please bring him back to me, or guide me to him." Her eyes closed, and a single tear escaped, tracing a path down her cheek in the depth of her yearning.

"Help! Help, please! Someone, help!" Someone shouted, the voice cutting through the calm like a sharp knife.

Radha's eyes snapped open. She recognised the voice. Startled, she turned towards the source of the noise.

Devashree!

 She was dressed plainly, almost unrecognizably so, in a simple servant's attire, her hair tucked messily under her pallu,her face flushing from exertion.

"Help! Help, please! Someone, help!" she cried, her hands waving frantically as she made her way through the startled crowd.

Devashree, panting and pretending to catch her breath, reached Radha and Ayan. She bent over, hands on her knees, as if she had run miles. 

"Oh, Radhaji, thank goodness I've found you!" she exclaimed, glancing around to ensure she had everyone's attention. 

"It's your cousin, Mira! She's gone into labor suddenly, and she's all alone! She needs you, Radhaji, right now!"

A slight flicker of understanding crossed Radha's features as she studied Devashree's flushed face and noticed a mischievous glint in her eye that was hard to miss for someone who knew her as well as Radha did.

Catching Devashree's wink,understanding dawned fully, and Radha had to suppress a smile at her friend's audacity and creativity. While part of her marveled at the boldness of the plan, another part felt a rush of excitement at the prospect of what it might lead to— a surprise encounter with Krishna.

Radha quickly composed herself, adopting a serious demeanor to match the situation Devashree had crafted. "We must hurry then," she said to Ayan, her voice laced with fabricated urgency. "If Mira is alone and in labor, there's no time to waste."

"Radha, where do you think you're going?" Ayan demanded, stopping them midstep, his voice harsher than intended. "You can't just leave based on some vague emergency. Who is this Mira?"

Devashree looked up at Ayan with wide, innocent eyes. "

Ayan Ji, it's an emergency," she began, her voice soft and pleading, trying to infuse every word with urgency.

"Mira is the ....sister of Radha......from another mother. She's alone and scared, and Radha's presence would mean everything to her right now."

Ayan, however, was not immediately swayed. His brow furrowed deeper, and he crossed his arms over his chest.

"This is all very sudden, Mahodaya. How do we know this is not some kind of... misunderstanding? Radha cannot just leave at a moment's notice based on an unverified claim."

Devashree's patience began to wane as Ayan continued to question the validity of the emergency. She had hoped her appeal to Radha's compassionate nature would be enough, but Ayan's resistance sparked a flicker of frustration in her. Plus they had no time. She has to return back to Dwarka with Radha before anyone notices, especially her husband.

"Ayan Ji," she responded, her voice still controlled but with a sharper edge, "when someone is in need, especially in labor, we don't just stand around demanding proofs and paperwork. We act! Radha's kindness could be what makes a difference in a young mother's life today."

"I appreciate the urgency, but it is my duty to ensure Radha's safety. We can't just rush off based on a few frantic words. We need more information before making such decisions."

At this, Devashree's temper flared."Ayan Ji, while you stand here making decisions, a woman is out there possibly struggling through the most painful and terrifying moments of her life! We don't have time for this!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in both volume and pitch.

Without waiting for any further discussion, Radha herself reached out and grabbed Devashree's hand, her actions signaling her readiness to leave immediately, totally ignoring Ayan. She understood it was all an act, of course, and knowing Devashree, she would take her directly to Krishna.

"Radha!" Ayan shouted, his voice echoing through the hushed temple, drawing startled looks from other worshippers. "You cannot just leave like this without proper understanding of the situation!"

Radha flinched slightly at the sharpness in Ayan's voice, her usual gentle demeanor wilting under his scrutiny. She hesitated, searching for words that might soothe her husband's sudden agitation.

Before Radha could formulate a response, Devashree stepped in, her eyes flashing with indignation at Ayan's brusque manner. "Ayan Ji!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in both volume and force. "There's no need to speak to Radha with such disrespect. She's your wife, not your subordinate!"

Ayan, taken aback by Devashree's fierce protectiveness, tried to regain his composure. "I am merely concerned for her safety," he replied defensively, his posture stiffening.

Devashree's expression hardened, and she moved a step closer to Ayan, her stance confrontational. "
"Concern is one thing, but trying to intimidate Radha is entirely another. She's not doing anything wrong; she's trying to help someone in need. And I won't stand here and watch you bully her into submission."

Radha stood by quietly, her eyes wide, as she watched the exchange between her husband and her formidable friend. She had rarely seen Devashree so incensed, and Ayan's usual assertiveness seemed to falter under Devashree's sharp rebuke.

Ayan's gaze shifted between the two women, the force of Devashree's words impacting him deeply. "I... I didn't mean to—" he started, his voice losing its earlier force.

Devashree interrupted him firmly, "You may not have intended to, Ayan Ji, but your tone was out of line. Radha is trying to do a good deed. We should be supporting her, not questioning her like she's committed some wrongdoing."

 Radha, caught in the middle, watched silently, her gaze flicking between her husband and her fiercely protective friend.

"Perhaps I could accompany you both?" he suggested tentatively, his voice lacking its usual confidence. "Just to ensure everything is alright." Ayan, visibly cowed by Devashree's reprimand, attempted to regain some ground.

Devashree turned sharply towards him, her eyebrows arching in disbelief. 

"And what exactly will you do, Ayan Ji, as the woman gives birth? Offer to catch the baby?" Her tone was dripping with sarcasm, and even Radha couldn't suppress a small smirk at the absurdity of the image Devashree painted.

Ayan stuttered, his previous resolve dissolving under Devashree's pointed questions. "Well, I... I was just thinking since we were just visiting the temple together for the evening, and now I don't have any... shelter."

Devashree scoffed, her frustration with Ayan's continued excuses growing. "Oh, please," she retorted with a dismissive wave of her hand, "if shelter is what you're worried about, then I suggest you find a nice, cozy spot on the street. Bhudevi will protect you, surely." Her voice was sharp, but there was a twinkle of humor in her eyes.

Ayan stood there, mouth agape, processing Devashree's biting suggestion. The absurdity of the situation seemed to dawn on him, and he realized just how out of his element he was in this argument.

As Radha and Devashree turned to leave, Radha cast a sympathetic look back at Ayan having to battle an argument that he never had the chance of winning. Devashree, however, seemed hardly able to suppress her amusement at having bested Ayan in their verbal sparring.

As they walked away, Radha leaned in and whispered to Devashree, "You really shouldn't tease him so much."

Devashree chuckled, her earlier fierceness melting into mischief. "Oh, Radha, sometimes it's just too easy."

"You are unbelievable, Devashree. Now, tell me, what is this really about? And please tell me it involves Krishna."

Devashree's laugh, bright and unburdened, confirmed Radha's hopes as they made their way to the surprise that awaited them......

As Radha finished recounting the whirlwind tale of how Devashree orchestrated her dramatic escape from Ayan, Krishna's face was alight with amusement and awe. His laughter echoed through the trees, a deep, joyous sound that perfectly captured his delight.

"Shree," Krishna managed to say between chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief and admiration. "You and your drama! And Radha, that you played along so brilliantly.Poor Ayan didn't stand a chance, did he?" Krishna continued, his voice rich with humor and a hint of conspiratorial glee.

Radha nodded, still giggling from the memory and Krishna's reaction,her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Truly, Krishna, you should have seen Ayan's face. He did't know how to answer her at all!"

"Well we had to make our escape, and you know, desperate times call for desperate measures." Devashree added.

Krishna nodded sagely, a grin still playing on his lips. "Indeed, desperation seems to inspire remarkable creativity in you, Priye. Both of you remind me why my life is never dull with you around."

 Radha glanced towards the horizon where the last hues of twilight had faded, replaced by the gentle darkness of night. She sighed softly, a hint of reluctance in her gaze as she turned to Krishna and Devashree.

"I must leave now," Radha said, her voice tinged with a soft sadness. The words felt heavy in the air, laden with the unspoken wish that the day would not end.

Krishna's expression mirrored her sentiment, his smile fading slightly as he absorbed her words.

"I understand, Radhe," he replied, his voice gentle, reflecting his reluctance. "But know that you are always here," he touched his heart briefly, "in this sacred space."

Devashree felt a rush of urgency at Radha's announcement. Her face fell, and she reached out, grabbing Radha's hands with a gentle firmness.

"Please, Radha, stay a little longer," Devashree pleaded, her voice rich with emotion. "The night is still young, and the stars have just begun to shine. Surely, a few more hours wouldn't hurt?"

Radha looked into Devashree's earnest, pleading eyes, and then at Krishna's accepting yet sorrowful smile.

She felt torn. The part of her that yearned to stay, to bask a little longer in the joy and love of Krishna's and Devashree's company, but it clashed with the responsibilities waiting for her.

"I wish I could, Devashree," Radha responded softly, squeezing her hands.
"But Ayan will be worried, and my sudden departure without a proper farewell... it's already stretching the bounds of propriety."

Krishna nodded in understanding, his demeanor composed but his eyes revealing a hint of his disappointment. "Radha is right," he said, turning to Devashree with a comforting smile. "We must respect her duties, just as she has blessed us today with her presence."

Devashree sighed, nodding reluctantly. Her gaze lingered on Radha, wishing there were a way to extend the precious moments they had reclaimed. "Then at least let us walk you out," she suggested, trying to mask her disappointment with a smile. 

They watched as Radha left.

"I'm sorry, Krishna," Devashree said softly, her gaze downcast. "I was being selfish. I know Radha has her duties, her dharma, my dharma, but..." Her voice trailed off as she struggled to express the turmoil of emotions swirling within her.

Krishna turned to her, his expression gentle, understanding the conflict in her heart. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Shree," Krishna began, his voice soothing, "it's natural to feel this way. It's not selfishness.

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, then continued, "Radha has her responsibilities, as we all do. But remember, the love and connection we share is above these moments of separation."

Devashree listened, the warmth in Krishna's words slowly easing the tightness in her chest. She nodded, taking a deep breath as she absorbed his comforting assurance.

"I know you're right," Devashree admitted, managing a small smile through her melancholy. "It's just hard to say goodbye, even when I know it's temporary. Each moment we spend together is so precious, so full of life and love."

 "Indeed, each moment is precious. But rather than dwell on the sorrow of parting, let us cherish the joy of the times we share. And let us look forward to the many reunions that await us, for with true love, every goodbye is simply the precursor to another hello."

His words, wise and heartfelt, brought a sense of peace to Devashree. She stepped closer, leaning her head against Krishna's shoulder, grateful for his presence and the unspoken strength he offered.

"Thank you, Krishna," she murmured, feeling more grounded and less adrift in her emotions. "For your wisdom, your compassion, and your unwavering presence. It helps more than you know."

Krishna wrapped his arm around her, pulling her into a gentle embrace. "Always, Priye," he responded softly. "In joy and in sorrow, in meetings and partings, I am here."

As Krishna and Devashree slowly walked back towards the heart of the celebration, the sound of laughter and jovial chatter gradually grew louder. 

The night, though dark, was illuminated by the flickering lights of lanterns hung from the trees and the vibrant glow of a large bonfire around which a group was gathered. 

As they approached, the figures became clearer— it was the Pandavas and Draupadi, still bathed in the riotous colors of Holi.

Yudhishthira stood laughing heartily, his usually serene face painted

in shades of blue and red, making him look more like a canvas than the calm and composed prince he was. 

Beside him, Bheem was animatedly recounting something , splashes of green and yellow powder accentuating his expressive movements. .

Arjun was in the midst of a tale, his hands moving as vividly as his words, painting images in the air almost as colorful as the gulal smeared across his cheeks.

Nakul and Sahadev, were teasing each other, flicking small handfuls of color from their reserves every so often, their laughter ringing clear and joyful.

At the center of it all was Draupadi, the radiant queen, who looked like a goddess adorned by spring herself. Her laughter mingled with the others', a sound as melodious as the music that had earlier filled the air.

As Krishna and Devashree approached, Draupadi noticed them first. 

Her face lit up with a warm smile, and she waved them over enthusiastically. "Govind, Devashree!" she called out. "Come, join us! The night is young, and the tales are plenty."

Krishna returned her smile with equal warmth, guiding Devashree with him as they made their way to the group.

"It seems the celebrations continue with undiminished spirit," Krishna remarked jovially as they reached the circle.

"Indeed, Madhav. It wouldn't be Holi without a bit of lingering revelry. You both look like you've had quite a colourful evening yourselves." 

 "We've had our moments of color and chaos. But it looks like you've all outdone yourselves here." Devashree chuckled.

Bheem boomed with laughter and pointed at his own stained face. "You should have seen Draupadi earlier, orchestrating an ambush on us! She's a true warrior queen of colors."

Draupadi laughed, a glint of playful pride in her eyes. "One must keep their skills sharp, Arya Bheem. How is it my fault that you could not dodge me?"

"Wife, how could anyone stand a chance before you much less me ? It seems I need to train harder, not just in the battlefield but in the art of Holi as well!" Bheem surrendered raising his hands in defeat.

"Bhrata Bheem, perhaps next year you should wear armor even for Holi. It seems you face fiercer battles form my Sakhi here than on any actual battlefield!"

"Indeed, Madhav. We might all need to start taking lessons from her!"

Draupadi bowed playfully. "I am always here to teach, should you all wish to learn. But I will require fees."

Arjun raised an eyebrow and leaned forward with a smirk. "And what exactly would be the currency of these fees, Draupadi? More colors, or perhaps sweets?"

"Both! A stack of sweets for every lesson and extra colors as a bonus. Only then can I guarantee you'll survive my training without falling victim to another ambush!"

 "I suppose it's a small price to pay for the ability to dodge Draupadi's color attacks. Sign me up for the first session, but I demand a discount if I end up more colorful than before!" Nakul chimed in with his characteristic wit.

Sahadev nodded in agreement, his voice teasing, "I'll join too, but only if there's a guarantee of actually winning . Draupadi, your training must come with assurances of success, right?"

Krishna laughed warmly, enjoying the camaraderie and the light-hearted negotiations. "It seems Draupadi is going to be quite busy next Holi, training all these warriors. But remember, the true spirit of Holi isn't just about winning; it's about enjoying, celebrating, and spreading joy."

Draupadi nodded gracefully, taking Krishna's words to heart. "Indeed, Sakha, you are right as always. "

As the conversation by the fire reached a natural lull, Devashree stood up, excusing herself with a smile. 

"I'll be right back; just need to freshen up a bit," she announced, dusting off her colorful saree as she stood. 

The group nodded, and she wandered off toward the stream nearby, the soft murmur of the water calling like a siren for a quick cleanse.

As Devashree approached the stream, she was drawn away by the unmistakable sounds of laughter and scuffling. 

Curiosity piqued, she followed the noise, navigating through a slight thicket before emerging into a small, secluded clearing.

Subhadra had Pratap in a playful headlock. 

"Give up yet, Pratap?" Subhadra taunted with a gleeful grin, her grip around Pratap's head tightening just enough to assert her temporary dominance.

"Not on your life, Subhadra," Pratap retorted, his voice muffled but determined. With a swift maneuver, he managed to free himself, stumbling back with a triumphant laugh. "It'll take more than that to best me !"

Their eyes locked, sparks of both challenge and admiration flying between them.

Devashree watched from a short distance and couldn't help but laugh at their antics. "Should I declare a winner, or do you two need another round to settle this?" she asked, amusement coloring her voice.

Sensing Devashree's presence, they quickly disentangled themselves, each stepping back with a splash of awkwardness as they attempted to resume a semblance of normalcy.

 Their faces were flushed that spoke of the intensity of their interaction.

Pratap straighted his angvastra and ran a hand through his hair, attempted to adopt a nonchalant demeanor. 

Subhadra, on her part, busied herself with patting down her saree, her movements unnecessarily vigorous for merely adjusting her attire. When they noticed Devashree's amused yet inquisitive look, both feigned a casual indifference.

"Bhabhishree!" Subhadra exclaimed with a brightness that was a touch too forced. "What a surprise! Enjoying the festivities?"

Pratap chimed in with an equally overdone casualness, "Yes, we were just having friendly bout of Holi fun, you know how it is Jiji."

Devashree raised an eyebrow, her gaze flicking between the two. 

The charged atmosphere was palpable. She opened her mouth, ready to delve deeper into what she had just witnessed, her curiosity piqued by their obvious fluster.

However, before she could voice her observations, she felt strong arms sweeping her off her feet. Krishna, with his characteristic charm and timing, had arrived, lifting Devashree into a spontaneous whirl.

"Shree, always the detective," Krishna teased, spinning her around with a joyful ease that made her momentarily forget her initial line of questioning. His eyes sparkled with mirth, and his smile was contagious.

Caught up in Krishna's charismatic presence, Devashree laughed, allowing the moment to swirl her away from her suspicions. "Krishna! You always know how to make an entrance," she said, still in his arms.

Subhadra and Pratap, relieved by the timely distraction, exchanged a quick, knowing glance—both grateful for Krishna's interruption. 

"Indeed, I do," Krishna agreed, his voice light. "And I see our siblings here were deeply engaged in the art of Holi warfare. Or was it something more?" His glance was teasing, subtly acknowledging the scene he had interrupted without pushing further, giving Subhadra and Pratap a graceful out.

Subhadra, now recovered and bolstered by Krishna's jovial demeanor, rejoined, "Just the usual Holi festivities,Bhratashree. You know how competitive it can get."

Still having Devashree in his arms, Krishna walked forward,leaving the two behind.

As his eyes locked onto hers, he leaned closer, his voice a soft murmur meant only for her ears. "Let's leave them alone. Why not leave the mysteries for later, Shree? Tonight, focus on the moments we can steal away just for ourselves," he suggested with a hint of playfulness.

As he spoke, his lips brushed lightly against her neck, that sent a ripple of warmth through her.

Continuing his gentle assault, Krishna's breath was warm against her skin as he nuzzled her ear, finally giving a soft, playful bite that elicited a surprised gasp from Devashree. Her initial reaction melted into a soft laugh, a sound that reflected both her surprise and delight.

Krishna smiled, his eyes gleaming with mischief and love as he felt Devashree relax further into his embrace.

"See? Much better when you're paying attention only to me," he teased gently, his tone light but carrying an undercurrent of sincerity. 

 "I suppose you might have a point, Krishna," she conceded playfully. "It's rather difficult, however, to focus on anything else when you're quite so... persuasive."

"Oh, Shree," he murmured with a teasing lilt, his voice low and alluring, "you think you've seen all the ways I can be persuasive? I assure you, there's much more to discover."

 Devashree raised a skeptical eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Is that so, Swami? You'll have to do better than that to convince me," she challenged, a teasing glint in her eyes.

"Challenge accepted, my dear," he replied with a confident smile. His voice dropped to a seductive whisper as he leaned in closer, his lips just grazing her ear, sending shivers down her spine. 

"Prepare to be thoroughly convinced."

********
A/N

What  do you think will happen in the next chapter 🤭🤣