A hard glint entered Krishna's eyes, his serene demeanor giving way to an intensity that only his closest kin would recognize.

"I need to speak with Subhadra about this first," he said, his voice calm but firm.

Before he could move, Balram placed a firm hand on Krishna's shoulder, guiding him away from the gathering and into a secluded corner.

"What are you doing, Kanha?" Balram hissed, his voice low but insistent. "Duryodhan is a great match for Subhadra. He is powerful, influential, and can offer her a life of comfort and prestige."

Krishna met his brother's gaze unflinchingly, his eyes a storm of emotions. "Dau, Duryodhan may be powerful, but his heart is filled with ambition and pride. Subhadra deserves a partner who will cherish and respect her, not someone who views her as a pawn in his political game."

Balram's brow furrowed, his grip tightening slightly on Krishna's arm. "You underestimate Duryodhan. He is our ally, and this marriage would strengthen our position. Besides, Subhadra's happiness is important to me too. I would not have agreed if I thought otherwise."

"Dau, do you not see what this truly means?" His voice was still calm, but there was a steel edge to it. "Duryodhan's intentions are not purely about family ties or Subhadra's welfare. This alliance is a strategic move to strengthen his position against the Pandavas."

"Kanha, you are seeing shadows where there are none."

"Have you forgotten the enmity between Duryodhan and the Pandavas? This marriage would only serve to further complicate matters."

Balram's eyes narrowed. "You always favor the Pandavas, Kanha. This is about more than just them. This is about our family, our kingdom."

"Do you truly believe Duryodhan will treat Subhadra with the respect and love she deserves?"

Balram's face softened slightly, but his resolve did not waver. "We cannot live in constant suspicion, Kanha. Sometimes, we must take risks for the greater good. Duryodhan is the Yuvraj of Hastinapur and soon will be the king. Subhadra will be a queen, and her position will be secure."

"I know you have Subhadra's best interests at heart, Dau, but I need to hear what she feels about this proposal. Her consent is paramount. Let me speak with her before we make any decisions."

Balram studied his brother for a long moment, the tension between them palpable.

Finally, he nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Very well, Kanha. Speak with her. But remember, this alliance could be beneficial for us all. Do not dismiss it lightly. And do remember Duryodhan is my best student and I have given him my word."

Krishna left Balram with a nod and made his way to Subhadra's chamber.

As he approached, he could hear the soft giggles of Nishath. The sound brought a brief smile to his face, reminding him of the innocence he was fighting to protect.

He paused at the entrance, taking a deep breath to steady himself before stepping inside.

Inside, Subhadra and Devashree were sitting on the floor, their attention focused on little Nishath, who had just learned to crawl. His delighted giggles filled the air as he made his way across the room, his tiny hands and knees patting the ground with determination.

"Bhratashree!" Subhadra exclaimed, looking up as he entered. "Look at Nishath, he's crawling so well now!"

Krishna managed a smile, though his eyes betrayed the seriousness of his thoughts. "Yes, he is. He's growing fast," he replied, crouching down beside them. He reached out to ruffle Nishath's hair, the child's innocent giggles a temporary balm to his troubled mind.

Subhadra smiled up at him but her expression shifted quickly to concern as she noticed the serious look in his eyes.

"Is something wrong bhrata?"

Krishna knelt beside her, his gaze softening as he watched Nishath for a moment before turning back to Subhadra. "There's something important we need to discuss, Bhadre," he said gently.

Sensing the gravity of the moment, Devashree scooped Nishath up and settled him on her lap, giving Krishna and Subhadra the space to talk.

"What is it, bhrata Krishn?" Subhadra asked, her voice tinged with apprehension.

Krishna took her hands in his, his touch warm and reassuring. "Yuvraj Duryodhan of Hastinapur has asked your hand in marriage," he said softly, watching her reaction closely.

The room fell into a stunned silence.

Subhadra's eyes widened in shock, her hand flying to her mouth. "Yuvraj Duryodhan?" she echoed, disbelief evident in her voice.

Devashree's expression mirrored Subhadra's shock. "But... why Duryodhan?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Krishna reached out to gently hold Subhadra's hand. "Duryodhan is powerful and influential. Dau believes this alliance would strengthen our position with Hastinapur. But Subhadra, your happiness is what matters most to me. How do you feel about this?"

Subhadra shook her head, her eyes filling with tears. "Bhrata, I can't. I don't even know him. I can't marry him. I will not!"

"Why would you refuse such an alliance?" Balram roared, stepping into the room, his presence commanding.

Subhadra stood up, her hands trembling. "Dau, I can't marry someone I don't love," she said, her voice firm despite her nervousness.

"Subhadra, love can grow even after marriage. Duryodhan is a powerful ally, and this marriage would secure our kingdom's future."

Devashree stood up, cradling Nishath against her hip. "But Dau, love and affection are the foundation of a happy marriage. Subhadra's happiness should come first. A forced marriage for political gain could lead to a lifetime of unhappiness."

Balram looked at Devashree, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Devashree, I understand your concerns, but sometimes we must make sacrifices for the greater good. Duryodhan can provide Subhadra with a life of comfort and prestige. Love can come later."

"I can't marry him, Dau," she said, her voice firm despite the tremor in it. "I don't even know him."

"If that's the issue, we can arrange something. I will ask Duryodhan to take you out on a stroll this evening, okay? That way, you can get to know him better."

Subhadra shook her head, her anxiety palpable. "Dau, it's not just about knowing him. I have no feelings for him."

Balram sighed, frustration creeping into his voice. "Subhadra, Duryodhan is very strong and can protect you well. He is a great match in terms of power and prestige.You will be the queen of Hastinapur. Is there any greater privilege for a Rajkumari? "

"But Dau, my heart-" Subhadra began.

"Subhadra, I have given my word," Balram cut her off "You don't want to dishonor your Dau, would you? This marriage is crucial."

Subhadra's eyes filled with tears, her heart aching at the thought of disappointing her beloved brother.

Before she could respond, Balram called out to a nearby servant. "Dasi, prepare Rajkumari for tomorrow's evening. She is to meet her to be husband."

The servant nodded and hurried off to make the necessary arrangements.

Subhadra stood frozen, her mind racing with a mix of fear and helplessness. She looked to her Bhrata Krishn, her eyes pleading for his support but he had already turned after Balram.

Her eyes welled up with tears and she stumbled.

The thought of marrying Duryodhan, someone she had no feelings for, filled her with dread.

She turned to Devashree, her eyes brimming with tears, and snatched her hand in desperation.

"Bhabhishree, please," Subhadra begged, her voice trembling with emotion. "You have to convince Bhrata Krishn not to let this marriage happen. I can't marry Yuvraj Duryodhan. You know I love Pratap. Please, please do something."

Devashree squeezed her sister-in-law's hand reassuringly, her own resolve strengthening. "Subhadra, don't you trust your Bhrata Krishn?" she said softly, trying to calm her. "Has he ever done anyone injustice? He will understand and support you."

Subhadra shook her head and sobbed, her grip tightening on Devashree's hand as if holding on for dear life. "But what if he thinks this is best for me? What if he agrees with Dau?"

Devashree wrapped her arms around Subhadra, pulling her into a comforting embrace.

"Subhadra," Devashree said, "Your Bhrata always puts our happiness and well-being first. He would never force you into something you don't want. You need to have faith in him."

Subhadra buried her face in Devashree's shoulder, her sobs muffled but still shaking her entire frame. "You know I love Rajkumar Pratap, bhabhi," she whispered, her voice breaking. "I can't imagine my life without him."

Devashree stroked Subhadra's hair, her touch gentle and reassuring. "I know, Subhadra. And Krishn will know too. He understands the bond of love better than anyone. Have faith in him."

On the other side Krishna quickly caught up, placing a hand on his brother's arm. "Dau stop. This is getting out of hand now," he said, his voice calm but firm. "You can't force her into this."

Balram's eyes flashed with a mixture of frustration and concern as he looked at Krishna. "Kanha, this is not force, why do you always have to complicate things," he said, his voice carrying a note of scolding. "You don't understand the pressures and responsibilities I bear. Duryodhan is my best student and will soon be the king of a large prosperous kingdom."

Krishna met his brother's gaze calmly, his demeanor unchanging. "I understand the responsibilities, Dau. But I also understand the importance of Subhadra's happiness. We cannot sacrifice her well-being for political gains."

Balram sighed deeply, his frustration evident. "You always see things differently, Kanha. But this is not a matter of debate. I have given my word, and I expect it to be honored. Do not interfere in this matter further."

With that Balram turned to leave, but then paused and looked back at Krishna, his expression serious. "Promise me, Kanha. Promise me you won't spoil this. I need your word that you will not interfere."

Krishna's eyes softened, and he nodded slowly. "Very well, Dau. I promise I won't spoil your plans."

Satisfied but still wary, Balram nodded curtly and walked out of the chamber, his footsteps echoing in the quiet room.

As soon as Balram was out of sight, Krishna's lips curved into a mischievous smile."Koi bhi kare Dau, karta toh main hi hu na," he said softly, a playful glint in his eyes.

Quickly making his way back to the chamber, he glanced at the reddened eyes of his dear sister."Subhadra, I cannot interfere in Dau's plans. He has given his word, and it is a matter of great importance to him."

Subhadra's eyes immediately welled up with tears again, her heart sinking at his words. She looked at Devashree for support, her emotions threatening to overwhelm her. Devashree nodded subtly, encouraging her to speak her truth.

Gathering her courage, Subhadra took a deep breath and spoke, her voice trembling. "Bhratashree, there's something you need to know," she began, her eyes darting nervously between Krishna and Devashree. "I... I have feelings for someone else. I like Pratap."

Tears spilled from her eyes as she continued, her voice breaking with emotion. "I don't want to marry anyone else. Please, Bhratashree, understand. My heart belongs to Pratap."

Krishna walked over to her calmly, reaching out to wipe away her tears with his thumb, his touch comforting and warm. "Bhadre, you have already crossed the first threshold of love," he said softly. "Acknowledging your feelings and speaking your truth takes immense courage. I am proud of you for that."

Subhadra looked up at him, her eyes still brimming with tears but now also filled with a glimmer of hope. "But what about Dau's promise? What will happen now?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Krishna smiled reassuringly. "We will find a way, Bhadre."

*****
Past midnight, Devashree woke up in Krishna's arms.
His arms were wrapped around her waist with his head nestled against her growing baby bump, and she could feel the rhythmic rise and fall of Krishna's breath.

She looked down at him, his face relaxed in sleep, his curls tousled around his head in a way that made him look even more boyish and endearing. She smiled, her heart swelling with love as she ran her fingers gently through his hair.

Good god! She would never get tired of this, of him, of the feeling of being so deeply connected to someone.

But something was amiss.

Her stomach rumbled softly, a growling sound in the deep dead of the night.

She frowned at herself, remembering the hearty dinner Krishna had insisted she have. He had been so loving, feeding her with his own hands, making sure she ate enough for both herself and their unborn child. And yet here she was, waking up hungry in the middle of the night.

She felt a twinge of guilt. How could she be hungry again?

Carefully, she extricated herself from Krishna's arms, moving slowly to avoid waking him.

She went to leave for the kitchens but paused as she caught her reflection in the mirror.

In the dim light, she could see herself dressed in a simple blouse and lehenga.

Her figure had changed so much over the past months. She noticed how her blouse was too tight now, stretching over her fuller breasts. Her hips had widened, and her belly, round and prominent, was a constant reminder of the life growing inside her.

She sighed softly, running her hands over her curves. "Look at you.Your body is changing so much."

But as she looked at her baby bump, her expression softened into a smile. "Screw it," she mumbled to herself. "It's all worth it."

With a gentle tug, she loosened her blouse to ease some of the tightness and wrapped a sheer odhani around herself. The palace was quiet as she made her way to the kitchens.

The kitchens were dimly lit, the soft glow of the dying embers in the hearth. Upon entering, she lit a small oil lamp to illuminate the space further.

As she searched through the cupboards, her eyes landed on a beautifully arranged tray covered with a cloth kept in the corner.

Lifting the cloth, she found a plate of perfectly made gulaab jamuns, their sweet syrup glistening invitingly.

A note lay beside the tray, written in the familiar, elegant hand of her mother-in-law, Mata Devaki.

"For my dear daughter.Enjoy these sweets, but don't let Krishna eat them all!" it read.

Devashree smiled, touched by the thoughtful gesture. She picked up a gulaab jamun, its rich, sugary scent making her mouth water.

Just as she was about to take a bite, her enjoyment was interrupted by the sound of raised voices coming from a nearby corridor.

Who's shouting so late into the night?

She paused, straining to hear. The sound of raised voices echoed through the hallway, growing louder and more insistent.

Curiosity piqued, Devashree set down the tray and moved towards the door. She stepped out into the corridor, her heart pounding slightly as she followed the voices.

The closer she got, the clearer the words became-angry and intense.

She instinctively slowed her pace as she came near a window of a room, her heart pounding in her chest.

The voices grew clearer, and she recognized them instantly—Duryodhan and his cunning uncle, Shakuni!

"I can't marry her, Mamashree," Duryodhan's voice was filled with frustration and defiance.

"Bhanje, you were fine till now. Why the sudden change of heart? This is a great opportunity to grasp the power of Dwarka for ourselves," Shakuni's tone was oily and persuasive, trying to coax his nephew.

Duryodhan's eyes flashed with anger. "I am capable enough myself! Why should I marry for power? Besides I am already married and quite satisfied with my wife," Duryodhan shouted back, his voice echoing through the guest room.

"Bhanje, you must understand. Dwarka is the most powerful kingdom of Aryavarta. You know this, don't you?" Shakuni's voice turned harsh, a hiss of irritation. 

"It's Hastinapur which is the most powerful!" Duryodhan retorted angrily.

"Don't shout! Someone might hear you! And don't live in a delusion," Shakuni snapped, his voice lowering dangerously. "You know that the Narayani Sena of Vasudev is the mightiest of all! It is feared for a reason. If you marry Vasudev's sister, then Dwarka will be forever under our thumb!"

"I am married already! I have promised Bhanumati—"

"You just need to marry her, Bhanje... that's it. After that, you may never look at her. It will be just one more woman inside the palace, one you can completely ignore. Think of the power and influence we will gain."

Devashree's heart sank at Shakuni's callous words, feeling a mix of anger and disgust. She strained to hear Duryodhan's response, expecting resistance or at least hesitation.

"Fine Mamashree. I will do it. But the Rajkumari will be nothing more than a pawn, know this now! She will know her place."

"Exactly, Bhanje. Women are meant to be controlled and used for our advantage. Vasudev's sister will serve our purpose, and nothing more. You will have the power of Dwarka at your fingertips, and she will be powerless to resist."

Disgust and rage seeped her veins causing her to tighten her grip on to the vase she was holding on to. 

How dare they speak of the Rajkumari of Dwarka this way? Is dhey nothing more than a pawn in their twisted game? The audacity, the sheer arrogance, to think they can control us, use her for their vile purposes.

Her hands trembled as she clutched the vase and grip tightened. A crack went through the middle of the vase and the fragile porcelain shattered. The shards fell to the ground with a loud crash, echoing in the dimly lit corridor

Startled, Devashree turned to flee, her hand instinctively going to protect her baby bump.

Her heart pounded in her ears as she glanced over her shoulder, her fear heightened when she heard approaching footsteps.

Before she could move further, a strong hand grabbed her arm and pulled her into the shelter of an alcove under the stairs.

Gasping in surprise, Devashree nearly let out a cry, but a firm hand covered her mouth, muffling any sound she might have made.

Her eyes widened in alarm until she saw him in the dim moonlight filtering through the window.

Krishna!

Relief washed over her momentarily, but before she could react, he swiftly pulled her, pressing her gently against the cool stone wall.

Devashree gasped at the sudden chill of the wall, her instinct to cry out stifled as Krishna placed a firm hand over her mouth.

Her eyes widened in realization as Shakuni and Duryodhan passed by, their voices muffled but audible.

"It was just the wind," Shakuni's smooth voice carried through the corridor. "These old palaces are full of drafts."

Duryodhan grunted in agreement, his tone dismissive. "Still, we should inform the guards to tighten the security."

As they disappeared around the corner, Devashree's eyes met Krishna's, her breath coming in shallow gasps.

As soon as they were alone, Devashree tried to speak, her words muffled by Krishna's hand. His eyes softened with concern, and he removed his hand slowly, allowing her to speak.

"Swami," she began in a hurried whisper, "Duryodhan and Shakuni... they were discussing Subhadra. Theyo plan to use her for political gain, to marry her off to Duryodhan."

Krishna's expression darkened with understanding and concern. "I heard," he said quietly, his voice serious.

"Swami what shall we-"

"Shhh, we can discuss that later. We need to talk first."

"What?" Devashree furrowed her eyebrows.

"Tell me, just how many times must I tell you? You should wake me or take the guards with you whenever you go out alone. Must I tell you every time. This is the third time this week you went out alone in the middle of the night!" he chided gently, his voice tinged with both reproach and affection.

Devashree bit her lip, her fingers fidgeting with the end of Krishna's angavastra.

"I didn't want to disturb your sleep," she murmured defensively, her tone softening as she continued, "Besides, I was going to be quick. Just a quick bite! And it's your fault anyway – your baby likes to wake me up every night. You know how it is, Swami," she rambled on, "The little one has a mind of its own, kicking and stirring whenever it pleases. Besides I am the queen, after all – I can go anywhere in the palace, can't I? Don't you say anything to me, you have put this baby here and all night he squirms like there's a festival in my belly and I haven't given him food for days! And-"

Krishna couldn't help but smile at her adorable rambling, as he gazed at her in the soft moonlight that illuminated the alcove, taking in the sight of her in the sheer white odhani, her blouse slightly loose, revealing a hint of cleavage.

Warmth surged through him, hot and wild, a fire igniting deep within him as he caught her alluring scent and admired her beauty. 

"Never mind the guards," he murmured, his voice husky with desire. "Only I have the right to see my queen like this."

Krishna leaned forward and cut off her rambling with a tender kiss, his lips meeting hers in a moment of passion and reassurance.

Devashree gasped softly against his mouth, her hands instinctively reaching up to rest against his chest, torn between desire and caution.

"Krishna, stop," she whispered breathlessly as he continued to trace her jawline with his lips, his touch sending shivers down her spine. "Not here..."

But Krishna didn't heed her words, his desire for her overwhelming his sense of caution.

With a swift movement, he drew a curtain over the alcove, shielding them from prying eyes and creating a cocoon of intimacy. His kisses became more fervent, conveying his love and longing for her, while Devashree melted into his embrace.

His lips continued
their tender assault on her
jawline, trailing down to
her neck, Devashree's
resolve wavered. Her
protests became softer, more breathless, until they were nothing more than soft whimpers of surrender. She clung to him, her body responding instinctively to his touch, her heart racing
in her chest.

"Swami..." she moaned
softly, her voice a mix of
desire and hesitation. But
the passion is eyes, the
way he looked at her as if she was the most precious thing in the world.

Krishna's hands roamed her
body, caressing her growing belly with reverence. "You are mine," he whispered against her skin, his voice filled with possessive tenderness. "And this baby is ours. I love you two so much Shree."

They both lost themselves in each other murmuring tender words to each other.

Suddenly, the curtain behind them slid open with a gentle swish.

Turning, they saw Mata Devaki standing there her eyes wide with surprise, a gasp escaping her lips.

Krishna and Devashree froze and quickly pulled apart their expressions a mixture of shock and embarrassment.

"Mata!" Krishna exclaimed, his usual composure completely shattered. He stuttered, searching for words. "I... we... I didn't..."

Devashree hastily reached for her discarded odhani, wrapping it around her shoulders to cover herself. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment. "Mata Devaki, we... um..." she stammered, unable to form a coherent sentence.

Mata Devaki cleared her throat, a small, knowing smile playing on her lips. "There... are many rooms.... in the palace..." she remarked casually, her tone carrying a hint of amusement.

"Yes, of course, Mata. We shall... find one room..." Krishna nodded vigorously stammering, realizing how absurd his statement sounded.

Devashree choked at his response "What are you saying, Swami !?" she hissed at him.

Krishna stuttered even more, his embarrassment growing. "No, we shall not find any room. I mean... We will find a room to sleep...yes to sleep only...not that kind of-"

"Mata, do you need anything? Should I fetch something for you?" Devashree cut him off and asked, her voice shaky.

Mata Devaki waved her hand dismissively, a small smile playing on her lips. "No, no, I was just on a walk when I heard some noise...My goodness, you two gave me such a fright; I thought it was a ghost," she said, her smirk becoming more pronounced as she watched them blush furiously.

Krishna and Devashree's faces grew even hotter as Mata Devaki's eyes twinkled with amusement. She watched them with a teasing smile, clearly enjoying their discomfort.

"I was just going. You two can continue... but in a room...and with closed doors." She winked subtly before turning away, leaving the young couple standing there, mortified yet relieved.

As she walked away, she murmured, "I will dream about my grandchildren." Her words hung in the air, adding to the already thick tension.

Krishna and Devashree exchanged a look, a mixture of embarrassment and lingering desire.

The silence stretched awkwardly between them.

They looked at each other and Devashree slapped her palm on her mouth trying to stiffle her while Krishna threw his head back and laughed.

Devashree leaned against Krishna, her laughter infectious. "Did she really just say that?" she managed to gasp between giggles, her eyes sparkling with mirth.

Krishna chuckled, wrapping an arm around her waist. "I believe she did," he replied.

Devashree giggled again.

"Well then," Krishna said softly as he regained his composure,  "Shall we... head to one of those rooms?"

Devashree's stomach chose that moment to growl loudly  Her cheeks flushed even deeper as Krishna chuckled softly at the unexpected interruption.

"Well, I suppose that settles it," Krishna said with a warm smile, his eyes twinkling with affection. "To the kitchens it is then..."

"Yes, the kitchens," she replied.

She adjusted her odhani nervously, trying to regain her composure. Krishna offered her his arm, and she took it gratefully, feeling his reassuring presence beside her.

"After you, my queen."

*****

A/N

Sorry for the delay but it couldn't be helped. This chapter is not edited heavily like I always do so forgive some mistakes if you see any🥲

Anyways so...how was the chapter...Batao batao...❤️✨

And also do let me know if anyone here has seen Bridgerton. I did and have some thoughts.❤️❤️

Until next time ❤️