As I sit in Adwait's room within the grandeur of the Randhawa palace, a peculiar sensation washes over me.

It's as if I've transcended the boundaries of being a stranger or a guest, yet I still grapple with feeling like an outsider. I'm struggling to pinpoint this enigmatic emotion, to assign a name to it. Though I'm not here solely as Adwait's wife, the eyes of others perceive me as such. My identity is no longer solely mine; it's now inextricably linked with his.

The thought of sharing my life, my everything, with someone else is both exhilarating and unsettling. I'm navigating uncharted territory, bound together in a new relationship with people who are now an integral part of my life.

As Adwait's wife, I've also become a daughter-in-law to this family, assuming a new role that brings with it a mix of emotions and responsibilities.

As I sit here, I question the wisdom of my decision. Uncertainty clouds my mind, and my heart whispers warnings. I shouldn't be feeling this way; I have a purpose, a reason for being here.

I'm driven by a quest for truth, one that could either redeem or destroy me. Though I'm venturing into the unknown, and the risks are palpable, I feel vulnerable.

Yet, I'm resolute. I will uncover the secrets of the past, no matter how painful or treacherous the journey may be. I need to know the truth about my life before Italy, about my parents' tragic fate, and my father's mysterious actions.

My uncle and aunt have always been evasive, dismissing my questions with a simple "he was a doctor." But I sense there's more, much more, and I'm determined to expose it.

The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that my father's death was no ordinary accident. If he was just a doctor, what could he have done to warrant such a tragic end? The fire that claimed his life - was it truly just a mishap, or was it something more sinister? My dreams, those haunting, recurring dreams, they can't just be mere coincidence.

Why do I have them so often, and why do they share a similar narrative? I've longed for answers to these questions, but every time I ask, I'm met with silence. Uncle and Nonna ignore me, while Aunt claims she's just as clueless as I am.

Yet, I sense they're hiding something. They only revealed fragments about Rudra when I pressed them, and even then, they shut down further discussion.

It's as if they're concealing a web of secrets, and I'm starting to unravel the threads. Their evasions and lies have only fueled my suspicions, and I'm determined to expose the truth.

It's taken me time to realize, but I've come to understand that they've been hiding a multitude of secrets from me. At first, I naively thought they were shielding me from the truth to spare me worry, but the moment Uncle had me sign those papers, my eyes were opened.

I saw that their actions weren't driven by love or pity, but by self-interest. They wanted control of my shares.

I couldn't fathom why they kept me alive, why they didn't simply claim I perished alongside my family and claim the inheritance for themselves. But then, I discovered Grandfather's will, and the truth began to unravel. Their motives, their lies, their manipulation – it all started to make sense.

Grandfather's will revealed the truth: he had left his legacy directly to Jarek and me, with the stipulation that if either of us were to pass away, our shares would be donated to charity. It was then that I understood the true motive behind their actions.

They had kept me alive solely for their own gain, and now that Uncle had secured what he wanted, I was no longer of use to him. Yet, he continued to keep me around, and I was certain he had an ulterior motive, one that I had yet to uncover.

This realization sparked a sense of self-preservation within me. I knew I couldn't rely on anyone else, so I took matters into my own hands. Joining York Corporation at a young age was my way of taking control of my life.

To outsiders, I may have seemed like a privileged heiress, but I knew the truth. Uncle had tried to break me by involving me in his illicit dealings, hoping I would recoil from the darkness. But I refused to back down. Instead, I steeled myself, determined to uncover the secrets and lies that had defined my life thus far.

I became stronger. I proved my worth there and became someone they can never replace, taking it to heights they never thought possible.

But I know that no matter what I did, I would never be the queen, just a pawn in their game if I didn't become smart enough. My life has taught me to rely only on myself and have faith only in myself.

I don't know how my life was before.Did my parents love me? Were they good people? Did they worry about me the way my Aunt and Uncle worry about Jarek? I was there, but I know I was never welcomed or treated the same as Jarek.

Don't mind me saying this, but Jarek is the only one who genuinely treats me like a sister, from the bottom of his heart. Others may show affection, but I can sense the insincerity.

Jarek's kindness makes me feel like I have someone to rely on, but my past experiences have taught me to be cautious.

I struggle to open up to him about my problems, fearing it may seem like I'm portraying his family as villains. I know no one would believe me, as they've always presented a facade of care and inclusivity. But I know the truth, and I've felt it deeply.

"Anisha!" a voice interrupted my reverie, snapping me out of my thoughts. I halted the endless chain of musings that had been occupying my mind. I turned to face Janav, who stood before me.

"I mean, bhabhi!" he corrected himself, using the affectionate term for "sister-in-law".

It was surreal - just days ago, marriage was far from my mind, but now I had a husband and a whole new family.

"Yes?" I responded, and he continued,
"Wo maa apko bula rahi hai"

("Mom is calling you").

I nodded and followed him, my heart still reeling from the sudden turn my life had taken.

As we ventured deeper into the palace, Janav led me to a previously unexplored wing. He pushed open the majestic mahogany double doors, the majestic mahogany door, with its intricate pigeon carving, slowly swung open, revealing a warm and inviting study room.

The door's rich, dark wood seemed to glow in the soft light that spilled out from within. As it creaked open, the scent of old books, leather, and a hint of wood polish wafted out, enticing me to enter.

I followed Janav in, my eyes adjusting to the warm, golden light that filled the space.

Adwait was already there, standing tall and poised, his eyes fixed on me as I entered.

The room was filled with a sense of anticipation, as if everyone was waiting for something to unfold.

Seated or standing, the room's occupants turned their attention to me - Adwait's parents, their faces a mix of curiosity and warmth; his aunt and uncle, their expressions more reserved, but still interested.

The air was thick with expectation.

As I entered, all eyes turned to me, their gazes piercing and inquisitive. Unlike the warm welcome I received initially, this time their looks were laced with unspoken questions and curiosity.

I fidgeted with my fingers, feeling a nervousness I'd never experienced before, not even when I first entered this new world. Adwait's father cleared his throat, his serious gaze intensifying as he addressed me.

"So, Anisha... or should I call you Ava?" His deep, authoritative voice hung in the air, heavy with expectation. The hint of seriousness in his tone made me feel like I was on trial.

"Ava would be fine," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. He nodded curtly and gestured to an empty chair. "Take a seat." I complied, feeling like a defendant in a courtroom.

The air was thick with tension, and I gulped, my heart racing. I glanced at Adwait, who stood nearby, his eyes locked on mine. He offered a subtle nod of reassurance, but remained silent.

Adwait's father began to speak, his words measured and solemn. "The circumstances of your marriage were... unconventional, to say the least. And what we've since discovered has raised even more concerns. Marriage is not a trivial matter; in our culture, it's a sacred bond between two individuals and their families." He paused, his gaze piercing mine. "It's a commitment that requires dedication, trust, and respect." I bit the inside of my cheek, feeling a surge of anxiety. He studied me for a moment before continuing, "I expect you to understand the gravity of this union, Ava."

"I understand that you were simply doing your job, and anyone else in your position would have done the same. You would have returned home peacefully, but fate had other plans. I can empathize with you, Ava. You're also entangled in this unexpected situation without your consent, and it's a new experience for you."

Mrs. Randhawa's expression softened as she looked at me. "Marriage is a sacred institution, and though your circumstances were unconventional, I understand how you must be feeling. But please, don't worry. You're not alone. I'm your mother now, just as I am Adwait's."
I nodded, struggling to find the right words to respond.

Mr. Randhawa cleared his throat, his expression serious once more. "Ava, as a member of this family and our daughter-in-law, you're not just Adwait's wife, but also the future queen. Our family's dignity and pride rest in your hands. I'm not trying to restrict you, but I implore you to maintain the respect and honor of our family."
I nodded again, feeling the weight of his words.

"I will ensure that my actions never compromise the dignity of this family," I promised, feeling a sense of relief wash over me as they didn't pry into my past or ask uncomfortable questions.

"Good!" Mr. Randhawa exclaimed, his expression softening. I relaxed a bit, feeling a sense of reprieve.

As he stood up, the others followed suit, and I did the same. He approached me and gently patted my head, his eyes warm with expectation. "I hope you will keep your word, Ava."

With that, he left the room, followed by Mrs. Randhawa, who gave me a genuine, warm smile. Her kindness and gentle nature made me feel at ease, and I couldn't help but think that she was truly a sweet lady.

"You should wear something traditional tomorrow. We're expecting guests," Mrs. Ridhika Randhawa reminded me before leaving with her husband.

Once they departed, only Adwait, Janav, and I remained in the room. Janav bid us goodnight, "I should leave too, it's getting late. Good night, both of you!" He exited, and the door closed behind him, leaving Adwait and me alone.

I finally exhaled the sigh I had been holding for what felt like an eternity, feeling a mix of relief and nervousness at being alone with my technically husband, Adwait.

Adwait spoke up, "I had a similar feeling at your house."

"I doubt you did, since no one would have said anything to you." I replied , He shrugged, and I felt a slight easing of tension.

As I glanced around the room, my eyes landed on the shelves made of oak and pinewood, each adorned with unique carvings. One particular scene caught my attention - a bear and two men, one lying on the ground while the other sat in a tree. The bear stood over the prone figure.

Adwait noticed my interest and said, "It's a Panchatantra story." I nodded, recognizing it.

"I think I've heard it! It's about true friendship, isn't it?"

He smiled, "Yeah, that's the one."

As I continued to explore the room, I noticed some files scattered on the desk.

Adwait suggested, "Let's go, it's already late."

We left the study, and I couldn't help but comment, "This place looks quite old."

Adwait nodded proudly, "The palace was built by my great-great-great-grandfather, Adhiraj Randhawa. He was a majestic ruler."

I was impressed, "Hmm, so it's actually centuries old."

Adwait confirmed, "Yes, it is. The palace spans around 25 acres, with half used as our personal residence and the other half as a resort."

"Ooh, that's massive!" I exclaimed,

Adwait continued, "The palace is designed with a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, featuring stepwells, gardens, and a temple."

I was fascinated, "Oh wow, that sounds incredible! But what do you use the stepwells for?"

Adwait replied, "They're a tourist destination now."

I expressed my excitement again, "Ooh, that's amazing!"

"I've heard that women would immolate themselves in those stepwells, and their spirits still linger," I uttered.

"I'm unaware of any souls, but this palace has a similar tale," Adwait remarked.

"Really?" I pressed.

"Yeah!" he confirmed, opening the door for me. "Have you investigated if there are any phantoms here?"

"No, I'm not interested in ghosts," he asserted.

"Oh, but I thought you enjoyed inquiring about the names of ghosts... like Manjulika?" I teased, smirking as I crossed my arms.

"Hmm... I don't mind inquiring about the name of a pretty ghost," he conceded.

"Ooh! Really?" I inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Hmm," he mumbled, a hint of a smile on his face.

"Very well, then. I shouldn't mind transforming their pretty face into a ghostlike visage," he chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

I mentally scolded myself, "Ugh, why did I say that? Geez, forget it." I tried to brush off the thoughts, shaking my head.

"Let's sleep, it's getting late!" I exclaimed, attempting to change the subject.

He nodded in response trying to hide his smile.

"I should change first," I uttered, heading to the closet to grab a pair of pajamas. I slipped into the bathroom to change, trying to clear my mind.

As I emerged, a realization hit me like a ton of bricks: there was only one bed in the room. My heart skipped a beat as I thought, "Oh no, this means we'll have to share the bed."

"Okay, I'll just imagine there's a snake on the bed," I told myself, trying to calm my nerves. "I've slept with snakes before, so this shouldn't be a problem."

I left the bathroom and found Adwait nowhere in sight. I took the opportunity to admire the room's opulent decor. The gold and white color scheme exuded a royal touch, with a grand king-size bed at its center. Two bedside tables flanked the bed, each one elegant and refined.

My gaze wandered to the walls, where a stunning purple tiger lily painting caught my eye. A beautifully crafted dressing table stood nearby, accompanied by a small bookshelf tucked away in the corner. On one side of the room, two plush sofa chairs and a couch surrounded a sleek glass table, creating a cozy seating area.

My gaze fell upon the majestic curtains, their pure white fabric adorned with delicate magenta flowers.

The room's soft, elegant, and royal ambiance was truly captivating. I approached the curtains, deciding to draw them back, and discovered a glass door hidden behind them.

As I opened the door, I stepped out onto a spacious terrace, transformed into a breathtaking mini garden.

The vibrant flora took my breath away – roses in a kaleidoscope of colors, lilies, daisies, daffodils, marigolds, hibiscus, and many more.The sweet fragrance of blooming flowers filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere.

A charming bench sat in one corner, accompanied by a swing, inviting relaxation. A beautifully placed table completed the tranquil setting, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

It was really beautiful; one can spend quite some time here without realizing it. I went to the swing and sat on it to enjoy the view. The cold breeze blowing through my body made me shiver. Since I was only wearing a simple satin shirt, black trousers, and an overcoat.

I was feeling refreshed. Nature is a really good healer; it can calm your inner chaos. I just wanted to stay here and didn't want to go anywhere; it was beautiful and magnificent.

I lost track of time, but the sound of a sneeze broke the spell, bringing me back to reality. Adwait stood at the glass gate, leaning against it casually. He had changed into cargo pants and a sweatshirt. "Sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you," he said with a smile.

"It's fine," I replied, still taking in the view. "It's just beautiful."

"It is," he agreed, "but the person admiring it is even more beautiful than that. Nature has blessed her more than those flowers." I felt a blush rise to my cheeks at the cheesy line.

"It would have definitely worked if you were trying to impress a girl," I teased, trying to play it cool.

"I am trying to," he said with a pout, "but she's not an easy one."

His expression brought a smile to my face, and I chuckled. "Definitely the hardest one, I think!"

"Probably," he agreed, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "But what's the fun if she's easy to win over?" Adwait uttered, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Is she beautiful?" I inquired, smirking playfully.

"Yes!" he professed, his words dripping with elegance. "So breathtakingly beautiful that even the gods must have broken the brush they used to paint her. Such beauty can only be created once in a century."

His poetic words caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but smile. But before I could respond, he sneezed again, breaking the spell.

"Let's go inside before you catch a cold," I suggested, diverting the topic.

He murmured in agreement.

I wrapped myself in the comforter, inhaling the familiar scent that reminded me of the first rain – his scent. Oh no, I thought, I need to stop this train of thought before I drive myself crazy!

Adwait slipped into the other side of the bed after closing the windows, and soon sleep took me in her embrace.