"Shree!" Krishna cried, his voice filled with worry as he came running. 

Kneeling beside her, he cupped her face. 

It was burning hot. Her skin against his palm.

"Oh no, she's burning up! And her clothes are still wet," he muttered anxiously.

How long was she exposed to this cold....

Quickly, he removed his angavastra, detaching it from his shoulder and wrapping it around her shivering form.

Then, without wasting another moment, he gathered her in his arms and began to move swiftly. His only thought was to get her to safety and warmth. 

"Vasudev, wait!" Bheem called out from behind.

Her hair is still damp and she is shivering. Every moment counts. I need to get her to safety. I need to...

"Vasuddev I said wait," Bheem insisted as he caught up to him and gripped his shoulder in his strong hand. 

Krishna turned, his eyes frantic. "Bheem, I need to get her to safety. She's burning up!"

 "I saw her head hit pretty hard. We need to check for injuries or a concussion. Sahadev should take a look." Bheem's face was serious but calm.

Krishna hesitated, looking down at Devashree's pale face. He's right. I can't risk moving her further if she's hurt more seriously.

"Sahadev, check her," Krishna said, urgency still in his voice.

Sahadev nodded. "Yes, put her down, Bhrata Krishna. We need her to be awake."

Krishna gently laid Devashree down, her head resting carefully on his lap. He turned to Arjun, who had just arrived. "Parth, quickly bring some water."

Arjun dashed off to find water. 

Krishna cupped her face, his thumb brushing gently across her cheek. Her breathing was shallow and her skin pale beneath the wet clothes. "She must be so cold and exhausted," he murmured, brushing a damp strand of hair from her forehead.

Sahadev knelt on the other side, his practiced hands moving over her head to assess the injury, "There's a bump here, but it doesn't seem to be bleeding. She might have a concussion."

Krishna's eyes were filled with worry. "Will she be alright?"

Sahadev nodded. "She's severely dehydrated. We need to reduce the fever and keep her comfortable. 

Arjun returned quickly with a jug of water. Krishna took it and gently began to sprinkle some on Devashree's face, hoping to revive her while supporting her with his other hand.

"Shree, wake up," he murmured.

Devashree's eyes fluttered open, blurry and unfocused. 

Krishna breathed a sigh of relief. Thank the heavens...

"Swami..." she murmured, her eyelids heavy. "I want to sleep."

Those large expressive eyes were blinking up at him asking....begging for some semblance of relief.  

The pain and exhaustion in her gaze tore at his heart but what could he do? All you ask is a moment's peace, but I am sorry my love...I need you to fight a little longer.

Krishna gently stroked her hair, trying to keep her awake. "Sahadev, what can we do to help her right now?" he asked, his voice tinged with desperation.

"She needs rest and warmth. We need to get her dry and keep her comfortable. But first I must check something."

Devashree had already closed her eyes. I can see how tired you are, my love. Just hold on a little longer....Krishna lightly slapped her cheek.

"Be with me for a moment, priye," Krishna urged gently, rubbing her palms in his hands to keep her warm."Here,have this." He said, pressing the glass of water to her lips. She drank greedily, the cool liquid soothing her parched throat.

"Good, Bhabhishree. Now, if you will focus for a moment here, Sahadev asked and held up his four fingers in front of her. 

"How many fingers, Bhabhishree?"

Devashree squinted, her vision swimming. "Five... no, three?" she guessed, her voice uncertain.

Sahdev exchanged a worried glance with Krishna. Is the injury more severe than we thought?

"Sleep....." Devashree murmured.

"Almost done, Bhabhishree. I just need to check a few things to make sure you're alright." 

Devashree nodded slightly, her head heavy. "Yes, yes... I will just close my eyes for a second, okay?"

"Devashree, stay with us," Krishna said softly but firmly.

But Devashree was already nodding off. Her eyelids were so heavy right now. It was a battle in itself to keep them open. And his arms around her—it was so warm....

She murmured something unintelligible, her body leaning against Krishna for support.

Krishna couldn't help himself. He tightened his hold on her around her waist. He glanced at Sahadev, who nodded slightly, indicating he was done with his preliminary assessment.

"Her pupils are dilated. She's got a concussion," Sahadev said quietly, turning to Krishna. "We'll need to monitor her closely. Wake her up every four hours and ask her some questions to ensure she's responding normally."

Krishna nodded. "I'll take care of her," he said as he gathered Devashree in his arms once more, her body limp against him.

 As he turned to leave, his eyes fell on the lifeless body of the Baba, the Kaumodaki still embedded in his chest.

A flicker of anger and satisfaction crossed Krishna's face.

He reached out and touched the mace, feeling its divine energy resonate with his own. The Kaumodaki absorbed into him, its radiant light fading as it became one with Krishna.

He turned to Balram. "Dau, ensure the bodies are burned according to the rituals," he instructed.

Balram nodded solemnly. "It will be done, Kanha. You take care of Devashree."

Krishna carried Devashree out of the compound and forest on his chariot and then onto a five-headed peacock boat, equipped with all the necessities for their journey back to Dwarka. 

He carefully climbed aboard and positioned Devashree in his lap, wrapping her securely in his angavastra. He held her close, offering his warmth to combat the chill that had seeped into her bones. Brushing a lock of hair from her face, he noticed the cuts and bruises marring her arms and body.

How much you have endured, my love. I promise I will never let this happen again.

The boat set sail, gliding smoothly over the tranquil waters. 

"Swami," Devashree murmured weakly, her voice barely audible.

"I am here, Shree," Krishna replied, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "You are safe now.  Just rest."

She murmured something and snuggled closer into his warmth, her nose buried into the crook of his neck. He could feel her breath, soft and uneven, against his skin which became more even as she drifted back into a fitful sleep.

He pressed his hand gently on her swollen abdomen, feeling the life growing inside her. The baby moved slightly, responding to his touch. Relief washed over him, knowing their child was safe despite everything.

Krishna brought Devashree back to Dwarka, carrying her gently into their room. As he laid her down on the bed, Rohini Mata, and Devaki Mata, rushed over. Their faces were itched with concern.

"Thank goodness you're back!" Mata Rohini exclaimed, her eyes filled with worry as she looked at Devashree. "She looks so pale!"

"What happened, Krishna?" Mata Devaki asked. "Why is she in this condition?"

Krishna held up a reassuring hand. "She is well, Mata. Just dehydrated. She needs rest and nourishment."

Devaki Mata, however, was not so easily appeased. "Hear me! She must strictly remain in bed. I will not tolerate anything else! "

"As if Shree ever listens to that," Krishna murmured under his breath,

"What did you say?" Devaki Mata asked sharply, narrowing her eyes at him.

Before Krishna could respond, Devashree's eyes fluttered open, saving him from further scolding. The mothers noticed her awakening and quickly gathered around her.

"Oh, Devashree!" Rohini Mata exclaimed, her voice softening with concern. "Are you alright?"

Devashree blinked slowly, her eyes adjusting to the room's light. She smiled weakly at the concerned faces surrounding her. "Mata, I'm fine, just tired," she reassured them.

Mata Devaki touched Devashree's forehead. "You need rest and proper care, putri. You should not have been out in your condition."

Devashree nodded, too exhausted to argue. "I know, Mata. I just... things got out of hand."

"Mata, it was a situation that couldn't be avoided. We handled it as best we could. The important thing is that Devashree and the child are safe now." Krishna added.

The mothers rounded up on him.

"Krishna, you should have been more careful! She's in her third trimester! It's the most delicate condition. Taking her out in such a condition was irresponsible. What if something had happened?"

"Exactly. She should be resting and focusing on her health, not gallivanting off on and risking her own health to save lives!" Mata Rohini chimed in, her tone equally stern.

Realizing her husband was taking the brunt for her, Devashree quickly interjected. "Mata, I'm hungry," she admitted, her voice small. "Can you prepare some khichadi, Mata Rohini, and..."

"And?" Devaki Mata prompted, leaning closer.

Devashree bit her lip shyly. "And some of your kheer, Mata Devaki..."

The mothers' stern expressions melted into indulgent smiles. "You just needed to ask, Putri," Rohini Mata said, patting her hand. "We'll take care of everything."

With that, they bustled out of the room, eager to fulfill Devashree's request. Krishna chuckled softly and let out a quiet sigh of relief, watching them go.

A sharp wince crossed her face as Devashree tried to sit up. Krishna was immediately by her side, helping her into a more comfortable position.

"Why are you awake, darling? You should rest some more, you still have a fever," he said, concern etched in his voice.

Devashree gave him a weak smile, her eyes heavy with exhaustion."I know, but I want a bath first," Devashree replied. "I am so filthy after everything. I wonder how you managed to bring me here like this."

Krishna grinned. "I have to admit, it wasn't easy. You are heavy, you know."

Devashree's eyes widened in mock indignation. "Oh, please."

"My arms were burning by the weight —"

"Nonsense," Devashree rolled her eyes.

"I almost fell from the chariot while climbing it with you in my—"

"I can't believe you would say such a thing!" 

"You don't believe me? Ask Daruka, the chariot was creaking under your—"

"This is coming from the person who lifted a mountain on his little finger?" Devashree cut in, raising an eyebrow.

"Exactly," Krishna said with a grin. "That gives you a rough idea of how heavy you must have been—heavier than the mountain."

"A moun..How dare you! You are telling me that I weigh a hundred ton. I have never been so insulted! A TONNE! " Devashree exclaimed.

" Insulted? You're just saying that because you know it's true," Krishna teased,

"Oh, please, Swami, you're exaggerating as always. I've seen you lift an entire mountain on your finger and you expect me to believe that a mere human can weigh more than that?"

"But maybe it's because you're carrying our child. That must add at least a couple of tonnes—Plus, the emotional weight—"

"You're impossible! Just wait until I tell Mata about this—"

"Oh, go ahead, tell her! She'll agree with me," Krishna shot back, grinning. "She'll say, 'Of course, Devashree, you're eating for two now, so naturally, you're as heavy as—'"

"As a what? As a what, Swami?" Devashree demanded.

"As heavy as the world itself! You've got my whole universe in there," he said, gesturing towards her abdomen.

"How can someone exaggerate something so out of proportion ?" 

"Because its true! When I tried to lift you, I thought I'd need another pair of arms!"

"Then perhaps you should have used all of them! Last I checked you have two pairs of hands."

"Yeah, I did just that..yes...used all my four hands to lift you up, imagine you are that heavy. Gosh, I never thought a woman could be that heavy pregnant or not."

"Oh, so now you're saying women are naturally heavy? Is that it?" Devashree demanded, hands on her hips.

"Not at all," Krishna said, holding up his hands defensively. "I'm just saying that you, my dear, are an exception to all rules.'

"Yes, I suppose, the fault lies with me. Perhaps I have overestimated your strength. You had lifted me whole by your horns once, so I thought it would have been a piece of cake for you in this life Now I am starting to doubt if it was really you who lifted the Govardhan." Devashree tusked. " My bad. Afterall, how much those lean arms could lift? "Devashree teased him and squeezed his bicep.

Krishna gasps looking at his arms. "You call these lean?" He said pointing at his muscles."Do you not see the strength in these arms?"

"From the looks of it, they're not all that impressive!"

Krishna scoffed. "It's like arguing with a goddess who's never satisfied."

"And now I am someone who can never be satisfied—"

"That's not what I—"

"And not to forget heavy—"

"You misunderstand—"

"Perhaps I should eat less—"

Krishna shushed her with a passionate kiss, his arms wrapping around her and pulling her closer.

"Absolutely not! Eat as much as you like and even more. I am just teasing my love. You don't know how much I missed this," He murmured between kisses, his voice thick with emotion.

Devashree pulled back slightly, a soft smile on her lips. "I was only gone for a day."

Krishna shook his head, his gaze earnest. "But you had me so worried. I didn't know if you were even conscious; then there was blood, and you were alone in the wild jungle."

"The wild animals would not have hurt me," Devashree reassured him gently, her fingers tracing his cheek. "You know that."

"It's not the animals I was afraid of. It was the humans. The most dangerous in this day and age, with their slipping and decreasing morals. There's no telling how low they might go."

Devashree sighed, she placed a comforting hand on his chest. "I understand your worry, Swami, but I can handle myself. I have faced worse."

"Yes I saw how you killed him...you were so... so fierce, so powerful and so....irresistible. You made me fall for you all over again."

A blush crept up her cheeks as she looked away, unable to hide the smile that tugged at the corners of her mouth. He had again managed to caught her off guard. 

Krishna chuckled, clearly enjoying her reaction.

"Lost for words?" he teased, his voice dropping to a soft murmur. 

Devashree's blush deepened as she met his gaze. "Stop teasing me," she murmured.

"Are you blushing, Shree?" he teased gently, his fingers brushing a strand of hair from her face. 

"No." she replied, though her rosy cheeks told a different story.

"You know," Krishna said, "you look even more beautiful when you're flustered."

"Stop it."

"I can't help it. You're too charming for your own good." Krishna's smile widened as he leaned closer.

Devashree yawned, her exhaustion evident. Krishna chuckled softly. "You should get some sleep, Shree," he said tenderly. "I'll tell the dasis to prepare a warm bath for you."

Devashree nodded, her eyelids growing heavy. Krishna leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head before heading off for a shower himself. She closed her eyes, her mind beginning to drift into the comfort of rest.

Moments later, she felt a tiny hand touching her face. Opening her eyes, she found her almost one-year-old nephew, Nishat, Balram's son, gently patting her cheek.

She reached out to gather him into her arms, holding him close as he snuggled against her, his tiny fingers exploring her face with innocent wonder.

"Hurt," he said in his baby voice, noticing the cut on her forehead.

"Yes, I was," she replied, "but not anymore. You'll heal it away, won't you?"

Nishath's face brightened as he nodded vigorously. He patted the cut with his small, chubby hand. There was a look of concentration on his face as if he believed with all his heart that his tiny gestures could indeed make a difference. And it did.

"Did you miss me?" Devashree asked, her voice softening even more as she brushed a stray lock of hair from his forehead.

Nishath's eyes lit up with a joyous sparkle, and he nodded vigorously, his tiny face breaking into a smile. His tiny arms wrapped around her neck in a loving hug, and he burrowed his head against her shoulder.

"Where is your mother?" she asked softly.

 Nishath pulled back slightly, looking up at her with a puzzled expression as he thought about the question. "Mama?" he repeated, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

He squirmed a little in her lap, avoiding eye contact, his tiny fingers fidgeting with the edge of her sari.

Devashree couldn't help but laugh softly. "You ran away from her, didn't you?" she teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Nishath's eyes darted around the room, clearly trying to evade the question.  He looked up at her with a shy smile and pointed at her midsection with his tiny finger. "A ball?" he asked in his broken baby words, his gaze filled with curiosity.

Devashree's laughter grew warmer, and she gently placed her hand over her stomach. "No, it's not a ball," she said softly, her eyes meeting his with a loving gaze. "Your brother is inside here."

Nishath's eyes widened in amazement as he looked up at her. His tiny fingers reached out tentatively, as if trying to understand the concept. "Bro..the?" he asked, his voice filled with innocent wonder.

"Yes, a little brother," Devashree explained, her smile broadening. "He's going to be here soon, and then you'll have someone to play with."

Nishath's face lit up with excitement, and he clapped his hands together in delight. 

Revati entered the room, her eyes searching for Nishath. "There you are!" she called out, moving toward the bed.

Nishath, however, had other plans. He scrambled away from Revati, crawling to the other end of the bed as if to escape. Revati reached out and managed to catch him. 

Nishath squirmed in her arms, his tiny voice rising in protest. "Stay sheee!" he cried, his arms reaching out toward Devashree as if to plead for more time.

"Your Shree Kaki needs to rest, Nishath."

"It's fine, jiji. Let him stay." Devashree said.

Revati, however, was adamant. "No, you rest, Devashree. You need it. He has just woken up from his nap, he will drive you crazy."

Devashree looked down at Nishath, who was still crying, his little face scrunched up with frustration.

"Nishath," she said softly, wiping a tear from his cheek, "say goodbye to your Kaki with a kiss." 

Nishath looked up at her with teary eyes, still sobbing softly. Devashree leaned down, and Nishath, though reluctant, managed to plant a wet, sloppy kiss on her cheek.

"If you stay good for your mother and go with her now, I promise I'll tell you a new story tonight. A really special one." Devashree told him

As Nishath quitened Revati gently picked him up and carried him toward the door. "Come on, little one," she said softly, "let's go get some food."

Devashree had just settled onto the pillows, her body sinking into the soft embrace of the cushions, when Krishna walked back into the room. 

He was dressed in a dhoti and a robe that hung open from the front, revealing a glimpse of his broad, well-defined chest. His hair was still slightly damp from his shower.

Devashree's gaze followed him intently. She swallowed hard, her heart fluttering at the sight of him.

As he approached the table and began writing something down, his back remained turned to her. The quiet rustling of the paper and the soft scratch of the pen on it were the only sounds in the room.

"You are staring, love," Krishna said suddenly, his voice carrying a teasing tone without him turning around.

Devashree's cheeks flushed a soft pink as she realized she had been caught in the act. With a soft, playful sigh, she met his gaze in the mirror across the room, catching a glimpse of his smirk.

"You are very pretty." Devashree said softly, her eyes still fixed on him.

Krishna paused, his quill hovering over the paper as he absorbed her words.

"I have never been called pretty before," he replied.

" Then I'm glad I can be the first to tell you so."

"Hmmmm...but staring is still bad love, you are distracting me."

"Let me have my fill then, turn around."

He continued writing for a moment longer before setting down the quill and turning to face her fully. The robe fell open slightly more, revealing the broadness of his shoulders and the sculpted lines of his chest.

"Is this better?" he asked,clearly enjoying the attention.

Devashree's eyes roamed over him with unabashed admiration. "No, you are way too far," she said.

Krishna's smirked, and he took a few steps toward her.

"Closer?" he asked, his voice a low murmur.

"Yes," Devashree replied, her voice barely more than a whisper. 

Krishna obliged until he stood just within reach, his gaze locked with hers.

"Is this close enough?" he asked, his tone soft and inviting.

"Yes," Devashree said, her voice full of warmth. "But I still can't stare properly yet...that robe is blocking my view."

Krishna raised an eyebrow, a glint of playful challenge in his eyes. With a slow, deliberate motion, he loosened the robe, allowing it to fall open more fully, revealing the chiseled lines of his torso and the graceful contours of his form.

"There," he said, his voice a tender murmur. "Now?

"Throw it away," Devashree said.

Krishna's eyes sparkled with amusement. "I thought you liked this robe," he teased, his fingers idly tugging at the fabric.

"I prefer you more without it," Devashree replied.

A low chuckle rumbled from Krishna as he reached for the robe's edges. With a graceful, almost theatrical gesture, he let the robe slip from his shoulders and fall to the floor, revealing his bare torso to her appreciative eyes.

"Is this better?" he asked, smirking as he stood before her, fully exposed.

Devashree's eyes drank in the sight of him, her expression one of pure admiration. "Much better," she murmured, her gaze lingering with an open appreciation.

Before he could say another word, Devashree closed the remaining distance between them crashing her lips against his in a fervent kiss. 

Krishna's eyes widened in surprise for a brief moment before he melted into the kiss, responding with equal fervor. 

His hands roamed to her back, pulling her even closer as their bodies pressed together. Devashree's fingers tangled in his hair, drawing him even nearer. His lips traveled from hers to the sensitive skin of her neck, planting gentle kisses that made her shiver with delight.

She bit her lips, trying to stifle a moan that threatened to escape. She held on to his shoulder with all her might, her nails lightly digging in his skin. But a moan escaped her. She bit her lips harder, trying to keep her responses in check, but her body reacted instinctively, her breaths coming in quick, uneven gasps.

They eventually pulled back, their foreheads resting against each other, breaths mingling as they gazed into each other's eyes.

Just as Krishna was about to kiss her again, a knock at the door interrupted them.

Devashree grinned as she saw Krishna's face fall slightly. "It happens every time, doesn't it?" she teased.

Krishna sighed, a reluctant smile on his lips. "Not this time," he said, stealing a passionate kiss before standing up. "I'll go see who it is."

Devashree laughed softly, watching him go. "Don't be long," she called after him. 

Krishna opened the door to find a servant standing there with a respectful bow. "Dwarkadhish ki jai ho, the bath has been prepared. Would Devi like to clean up now?"

Krishna glanced back at Devashree, who was already starting to get down from the bed with a look of eagerness. He gave her a reassuring smile. "It seems like the bath is calling your name."

"Perfect timing," Devashree said, her eyes lighting up. "I could use a good soak after everything that's happened. And also cool off a bit after that..."

Krishna smirked. "A bath sounds perfect," he said, his voice low and teasing. "But I wouldn't be so sure it will cool you off."

Devashree raised an eyebrow."Oh? And why's that?"

Krishna leaned in slightly, his breath warm against her ear. "Because no matter how many baths you take, I'll just find new ways to heat you right back up."

Devashree's cheeks flushed at his words, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "We'll see about that."

With that, he stepped aside to let her pass, his gaze following her as she gracefully moved toward the bathroom. Devashree turned back once more, her smile widening at the playful challenge in his eyes.

 "I'll be waiting for you when you're done," he said, his voice low and warm.

"I'll be quick," she promised, giving him one last look before heading toward the bathing area.

Krishna watched her go running his hand through his hair, a fond smile on his face.

He approached the small wardrobe where her garments were kept, carefully selecting the attire for her. His fingers lingered over the fabric, choosing the softest silk sari knowing that would be gentle on her skin. 

Just thenthe door creaked and Balram entered the room.

"What are you doing, Kanha?" Balram asked, his brow furrowed. "And where is Devashree?"

Krishna turned to him, a smile playing at his lips. "I'm preparing something for Devashree to wear after her bath. She should be done shortly. What's wrong? You seem worried."

Balram's shoulders slumped slightly as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I think Devashree might be angry with me. I came earlier, but she didn't even look at me."

Krishna chuckled softly, a knowing smile on his face. "Well, I'm not surprised. You did accuse her of being manipulative and scheming."

 "I know, I know. I was wrong, and I feel so guilty, so terrible about it. Do you think Mata will ever forgive me?" Balram sighed, clearly distraught.

Krishna chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, you were quite harsh. But don't worry too much.  Devashree is forgiving. Just show her sincerity."

Balram sighed deeply, his gaze shifting to the floor. "I can practically hear Garud laughing at me for my folly. It's tormenting me. Please, Kanha, help me out here."

Krishna raised his hands in mock resignation. "Don't involve me in your personal matters. I have enough on my plate."

"Please, Kanha. This is important to me. You know Mata usually scolds and then forgives easily. She has every time. I can take the scolding but the ...cold anger..it terrifies me. Please help me Kanha. She will listen to you."

Krishna laughed "Since when have I ever taken sides in such issues?"

Balram raised an eyebrow. "Since when? I seem to remember plenty of times you've meddled in other people's affairs."

Krishna's smile widened, and he leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. "Well, maybe I have. But today, you're on your own. Figure out how to mend things with your Mata yourself. I remember the last time I interfered, she nearly had me for dinner."

"Just tell me how you convince her when you mess up."

Krishna smirked. "I never mess up."

Balram's frustration grew. "Please, Kanha, tell me what you do when she's upset with you. Give me a hint"

Krishna leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "I don't think you want to know that." He suppressed a chuckle, managing to keep a straight face.

Balram's eyes widened at the insinuation, "You...! you.are.right I DON'T!" His face flushed with  embarrassment .

Krishna's face broke into a full grin, unable to contain his amusement. "Well, I'm glad we cleared that up," he said, patting Balram on the back.

Balram shook his head. "I'll figure it out myself, Kanha. Thanks for the... insight, or lack thereof. Why do I even bother asking you?"

 "Just be sincere, Dau. Apologize genuinely, and maybe bring her something special. You know how much she loves those mangoes from the northern orchards."

Balram nodded, still looking somewhat apprehensive but determined. "Alright, I'll do that. Thanks, Kanha.  I'll go now before I lose my nerve."

Krishna watched him leave, barely containing his laughter but Balram turned back at the last moment.

"Oh,wait, I almost forgot to tell you, the situation on the island is almost under control. It has been brought under the rule of Dwarka. The other ministers are here and wish to discuss some more details with you."

Krishna nodded. "Alright, I'll be there shortly."

"Good. Now let's address the administration."

Krishna followed Balram to the council chamber, where the ministers were gathered. The discussion was intense and detailed, covering various aspects of integrating the island under Dwarka's rule, including governance, security, and welfare for its people. 

After what felt like an eternity, the discussions concluded. Krishna excused himself and hurried back to their room.

Entering quietly, Krishna found Devashree asleep on the bed.  Her eyes were closed, her hair spread out like a halo around her head. 

The dasis were carefully applying medicine to her cuts and bruises. She was not dressed yet, wearing a simple white lehenga and a chemise wrapped around her chest.

"Ekaānt," Krishna said softly, indicating that he wished to be alone with his wife. The servants bowed and quietly left the room, leaving the couple in privacy.

He removed his crown, placing it carefully on the vanity, and approached the bed.

 Climbing onto the bed beside her, his gaze fell upon the bruises and cuts scattered across her body. 

Gently, Krishna leaned in and kissed the cut on her head. 

The wound began to heal, the skin knitting together as if the injury had never been. He moved down her body, kissing each bruise and cut with infinite care. As he did, the bruises faded, the cuts closed, and the skin returned to its unblemished state.

He moved to her neck, where he kissed away the marks there, his lips lingering to ensure the complete healing of each wound. He continued down her body.

When he reached her swollen abdomen, he paused, his expression softening with love and nostalgia. He caressed her belly gently, feeling the subtle movements of their child. 

"Do you know how long I have been waiting to hold you once more, my baby?" He murmured as he pressed a tender kiss on her belly.

The memory surged forward within him, vivid and powerful. 

"I remember that day so clearly," Krishna murmured."You had been wrinkly, and bloody, wailing with the strength of your tiny lungs when Parvati handed you to me. You had stopped crying the moment I held you."

A soft, wistful chuckle escaped him. "But then I almost handed you back to Parvati, thinking that such a fragile thing was too delicate to be in my arms. I was made of vajra, after all, and you were so, so tiny. You could fit in my palm," Krishna's voice broke into a wet laugh.

"So, I gave you back to her. And when I did, you cried and cried, and I almost panicked."

"'Skin to skin,' Behen Parvati had said, and she handed you back to me. I was afraid, I admit. But then, I held you close to my heart. And you looked up at me with such trust and wonder, as if I held your entire universe. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen." 

"And then you smiled for the very first time—a toothless, innocent smile. And I didn't know that I could feel such a rush of love so quickly and so deeply. Some god of love I was..."

Krishna blinked, coming back to the present. His eyes were moist with unshed tears. "Can't wait for you to be here." He leaned down and pressed another kiss to Devashree's belly.

He then carefully covered her with a blanket, knowing she could never sleep without it. After making sure she was comfortable and secure, he settled back beside her. He held her close, his hand still on the belly, giving his warmth to his child.

"I have waited 3,887,874 years to hold you again. I suppose I can endure another two months."

******

A/N

Ahhhh..so much fluff. I might die from it....🤭

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Untill next time....❤️❤️