The morning sun filtered through the delicate silk curtains, casting a golden glow inside the chambers. Vaidehi stirred slightly, feeling the warmth of the blanket around her and the presence beside her.

Her cheeks heated as she remembered the events of last night—how Yudhishthir had comforted her, their quiet talks, and how she had unknowingly fallen asleep on his shoulder.

She turned her head slightly, only to find Yudhishthir awake and watching her.

"Did you sleep well, Vaidi?" he asked, his voice carrying amusement.

She blinked, her heart skipping a beat. "I... yes," she murmured, suddenly aware of how close they were.

"You were quite comfortable on my shoulder," he teased, reaching out to gently tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Vaidehi sat up hurriedly, her face warm. "I didn't mean to fall asleep like that!"

Yudhishthir chuckled. "I didn't mind."

She gave him a look before noticing the time. "Mata must be waiting. Today is my Pehli Rasoi, and I should get ready."

Yudhishthir stretched lazily, watching as she hurried toward the dressing area. "You seem nervous."

She glanced at him through the mirror. "It's an important tradition. I must make something that everyone likes."

Yudhishthir stood up, walking towards her. "You'll do well."

She smiled but didn't respond.

As she began tying the strings of her blouse, her hands fumbled slightly. Before she could try again, Yudhishthir stepped forward, his fingers brushing against hers as he gently helped her tie the knot.

Vaidehi stilled, her breath catching. "Arya..."

His hands lingered for a moment before he stepped back, his voice soft. "You should go now. They are waiting."

She turned to him, flustered, and quickly left before he could tease her again.

---

Vaidehi walked toward the Kaurava wing, determined to make something that everyone would enjoy. As she entered, she found Duryodhan and the other Kaurava princes lounging casually, discussing morning affairs.

Duryodhan noticed her first and raised a brow. "Bhabhi, to what do we owe the honor of your visit?"

Vaidehi folded her hands respectfully. "I wish to prepare something for my Pehli Rasoi. What would you all prefer?"

The brothers exchanged glances before Durmukha smirked. "Laddus. We all love laddus."

Duryodhan nodded in agreement. "Yes, let's see if our Bhabhi's cooking is as refined as her manners."

Vaidehi raised a brow. "And if it is?"

Dushasana leaned back with a grin. "Then we shall demand that you make it every day!"

Vaidehi chuckled. "A fair challenge. Laddus it shall be."

---

The kitchen was bustling, with attendants preparing meals for the royal family. Vaidehi tied her dupatta firmly around her waist and began gathering the ingredients.

As she mixed the flour and ghee, she felt a pair of eyes on her. Turning slightly, she saw Karna standing near the doorway, watching her with curiosity.

"Bhratashree," she greeted with a soft smile.

Karna stepped forward, crossing his arms. "So, my sister has finally stepped into the royal kitchen."

Vaidehi chuckled. "You doubt my skills, Bhratashree?"

He smirked. "Not at all. But I do wonder if my Kaurava brothers will survive if the laddus are too sweet."

Vaidehi rolled her eyes playfully. "Then you must be the first to taste them."

Karna raised a brow. "You wish to test my tolerance for sweetness?"

She laughed. "Of course."

A few moments later, the first batch of golden laddus was ready. She picked one up and extended it toward Karna. "Here. Tell me the truth."

Karna took a bite, chewing thoughtfully. The room fell silent as they waited for his verdict.

Finally, he swallowed and gave her a nod. "Perfect."

Vaidehi beamed.

Dushala, who had just entered, clapped her hands. "Then let's take them to the court before the my brothers riot for their share!"

---

As the royal family gathered in the grand hall, Vaidehi gracefully presented the tray of laddus. She first offered one to Bhishma, who took a bite and nodded in approval.

"Delicious," he declared.

Kunti smiled as Vaidehi approached her. "My child, you have truly made this palace your home."

Vaidehi bent to touch her feet, and Kunti blessed her warmly.

When she turned to offer one to Yudhishthir, he took the laddu but didn't eat it immediately. Instead, he looked at her with an unreadable expression before speaking softly.

"Did you save the best one for me, Vaidi?"

Vaidehi blushed furiously. "Arya!"

The Pandavas and Kauravas laughed at her flustered reaction.

Duryodhan took a bite of his own laddu and smirked. "Bhabhi, I'll admit... these are excellent."

Karna leaned back in his seat, watching the interactions unfold. He could see how Vaidehi was effortlessly building bridges between the two families—something that had been fractured for too long.

Kunti observed the same thing and made a silent decision. Perhaps, it was time to reveal the truth about Karna.

---

As the celebrations wound down, Kunti sat alone in her chambers, deep in thought.

Vaidehi entered, sensing the weight on Kunti's mind. "Mata, is something troubling you?"

Kunti looked up at her and sighed. "Vaidehi, if you had the power to mend something broken, would you do it, even if it meant facing difficult truths?"

Vaidehi frowned slightly. "Of course. But what is it that you wish to mend?"

Kunti's eyes softened. "Karna."

Vaidehi's breath hitched. "Angraj?"

Kunti nodded. "There is a truth about him that has been hidden for too long. I believe... you may be the one who can bring him back to where he truly belongs."

Vaidehi's heart pounded.

A truth about Karna?

And why did she feel that everything was about to change?