The night air of Jaisalmer carried the scent of sand and centuries—ancient dust, old blood, and the whispers of a thousand kings who had once ruled these golden sands. But tonight, the air held something else. Something new. Something terrifying. 

Kynat followed the wheelchair through the long, dimly lit corridors of the Ranawat Palace, her maroon lengha trailing behind her like a river of blood.. She had no idea where Veer was taking her or what he was about to do.

But she followed.

They reached a massive arched doorway, and Aadrash pushed it open. Beyond it lay the grand terrace of the Ranawat Palace, a sprawling platform of white marble, overlooking the entire city of Jaisalmer. When Kynat stepped onto the terrace, she froze. Below her, stretching across the palace grounds and spilling out into the streets beyond, was a sea of people.

Hundreds. Maybe thousands. Guards in black uniforms stood in perfect rows. Maids and workers in cream-colored uniforms knelt in formation. And beyond the palace gates, as far as she could see, the people of Jaisalmer had gathered. They had all come because the Hukum had called. And no one refused Hukum's call.

Kynat's breath caught in her throat. "What is this?" she whispered.

Veer didn't answer. Suddenly he grabbed her wrist and wheeled himself to the edge of the terrace, pulling her with him. She walked to stand beside him. The people below watched her with wide eyes—curious, fearful, awed.

Veer raised his hand. The crowd went silent. Then he spoke, his voice carried across the terrace, across the grounds, across the entire city of Jaisalmer. It was not the voice of a cripple. It was not the voice of a monster. It was the voice of a king—deep, commanding, absolute. "People of Jaisalmer," he said. "Look at this woman."

Every eye turned to Kynat. "This is Kynat Ranawat,"  Then Veer turned to look at Kynat and raised his voice to the heavens and roared. "Humari dharampatni. Humari Maharani. Sirf humari nahi. Balki is pure Jaisalmer ki Maharani.” (My wife. My queen. Not only mine. But the queen of Jaisalmer) 

Kynat's breath caught. She hadn't expected him to say that.  

“She is the wife of Veer Ranawat. And in this city, in this kingdom, that means she is above every single one of you."  Veer thundered. 

Then Veer raised his hand again. And the entire city of Jaisalmer bowed. Thousands of people—guards, maids, workers, citizens—dropped to one knee. They placed their right hands over their hearts. They bowed their heads. Even the birds seemed to hold their breath.

Kynat stood at the edge of the terrace. She couldn't breathe. She couldn't move. She could only stare at the man beside her—the ugly man, the cripple, the monster—and wonder who he truly was. Because for the first time in her life, she felt something she had never felt before.

Safe. But also, terribly, terrifyingly afraid. Because the man beside her was not only a cripple or a monster. He was something far more dangerous. He was a king who had just claimed her as his own. And in his world, there was no escape.

Unfortunately…Not everyone looked pleased. Inside the terrace hall, The Ranawat family watched everything. Dadasa and Dadisa's expressions hardened with every passing second. Each family member was turning red with anger.

Only one person smiled. Vaishali, Veer’s mother, a small proud smile. The kind only a mother could have. Because for the first time in years, Veer had publicly claimed someone as his own. And that meant something, whether he admitted it or not.

The crowd slowly dispersed. Veer turned his wheelchair, without looking back and leaving Kynat standing there. Confused and Shocked.

The moment they entered the palace, Dadisa's voice cut through the corridor. "Veer!"

Slowly and deliberately. He turned. "What."

Dadisa's lips tightened. "Ye pradarshan kya tha? Abhi aayi hui mamuli ladki ko Raani bana diya, huh!? Itna prem‑bhara swagat toh hamara bhi nahi hua tha jab hum shaadi karke aaye the."

(What was that performance? You made this ordinary girl, who just arrived, a Queen, huh!? Even I wasn’t welcomed with such love when I came here after marriage.) 

Jayvardhan stepped forward. "You made her look equal to this family."

Veer's expression didn't change. "She's not your equal. She is above you."

Nandini almost choked. "Excuse me?"

Veer's gaze moved toward her. Instantly she regretted speaking. "Shut up. And if anyone wants to say anything further, then they can feel free to leave my palace. Here, I have no interest in responding to pointless talk."

Then he left. Leaving everyone speechless and Kynat completely bewildered. Vaishali secretly trying not to smile.

__ ___

Later that night, back in Veer’s room, Kynat stood awkwardly near the doorway. Unsure what to do or say, after everything. 

Veer wheeled toward the fireplace and removed his watch, placed it down. For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Then Veer said, "You can leave."

Kynat stared at his back, completely stunned. "Leave?"

Veer turned to face her. "The marriage is done. The world believes we are husband and wife.  You don't have to stay in this room."

Kaynat's heart stopped.  "You're throwing me out? Then what was all that on the terrace? You claimed me as your Maharani in front of thousands of people. You defended me before your family. And now you're throwing me out? Was all of that just an act?" 

Then Veer leaned back, expressionless. "It was just a normal introduction. Don’t overreact so much.  And besides, this is my room and you are standing here without my permission. This isn't your Jaipur house where you can wander as you please."

Kynat’s mouth fell open.  "How can you say that? I am your wife!"

"For the world, there is nothing left between us… so it would be better not to keep any expectations. You're not here for my pleasure, Kynat. You're here because a dead wife or a traumatized wife is useless to me. For the family. For the business. For the image.",  Veer said each word like a bullet as he wheeled closer.  "And I need... breathing room. I don’t like to share what’s mine. Do you get that..?" 

For a second, Kynat simply stared at him like she wanted to throw something at him. "How can you be so impossible?" 

Veer's eyes narrowed slightly. "Practice."

That single word annoyed Kynat even more.  "You're unbelievable." 

Veer stopped inches from her, he looked at her lips then back at her eyes.  "Everyone keeps telling me the same thing…"

Kynat folded her arms. "Then hear it again."

Veer just stared at her, his lips twitched like he’s fighting a smile. But he quickly turned his expression cold and pressed a button of his wheelchair. 

The doors opened immediately and Aadrash entered. Kynat almost jumped, shocked. How did this man appear everywhere? Seriously. Was he living inside the walls? She thinks.

Aadrash bowed. "Hukum." Veer's gaze remained fixed ahead. "Take her to another room."

Aadrash blinked. Once. Twice. Then looked at Kynat. Then back at Veer. Clearly confused.  "Huh!?"  Aadrash’s eyes clearly saying Are you out of your mind..? 

Veer's eyes narrowed. Aadrash immediately understood. Veer looked away. Conversation over.

Kynat couldn't believe it. She was actually being thrown out on her wedding night by her own husband. She spun around dramatically. "Fine. I don't want to stay here anyway."

Veer didn't respond. Which somehow annoyed her even more. She huffed and Aadrash led her out, the doors closed behind her.

— — —

Next morning, Kynat stirs, the first thing she felt was a headache and the second was the knocking. She groaned, her entire body felt exhausted. Slowly she climbed out of bed, walked to the door and opened it. She immediately froze because standing outside was Vaishali, Veer’s mother. 

Vaishali’s face was serious, arms crossed and when she spoke her voice coldly. "What are you doing here, huh!? You should be in your husband’s room… and looking at you, it seems you’ve just woken up."

 Kynat instantly straightened, she swallowed and stammered. "I… I.."

Then suddenly, Vaishali burst out laughing. "Oh Bhagwan. Tumhara chehra dekho. Dar gayi kya..?"  (Oh God, Look at your face. Got scared, did you?)

Kynat stood there, completely confused. Vaishali gently held her arm and guided her inside. "Relax, beta. Yesterday I couldn’t even talk to you… so I thought, let's have a little fun with my daughter‑in‑law."

That earned a small laugh from Kynat. The first genuine laugh since arriving. "You really scared me, aunty."

Vaishali sat beside her then immediately frowned. "One minute. What did you say..? Aunty..? Itni khoobsurat saas tumhe aunty lag rahi hai..? Aunty nahi hai hum… Maa hai hum aapke."  (Such a beautiful mother‑in‑law, and you’re calling her aunty..? I am not an aunty… I am your mother.)

Hearing this Kynat’s eyes feel with tears but she holds them back. Vaishali took her hand in hers and said, "Aadarsh ne humein sab bataya ki kal raat Veer ne kya kiya. Veer ki taraf se hum aapse maafi maangte hain aur wada karte hain ki hum Veer ko bohot daatenge. Ab toh aap khush hain na?" (Aadarsh has told us everything about what Veer did last night. On Veer’s behalf, we apologize to you and promise that we will scold him a lot. Now you are happy, aren’t you?)

A smile appeared on Kyant’s face and  Vaishali signaled a servant. Within minutes warm herbal tea arrived. "Drink." Kynat looked at her shocked because she had never been offered tea in her own home. But she obeyed. The warmth immediately helped. Then Vaishali opened a velvet box, inside lay a magnificent necklace, royal, ancient, beautiful. Kynat gasped. "Maa..." Vaishali smiled softly. "Ye khaandani haar hai, beta. Dadisa ne ye humein diya tha aur ab hum ye aapko de rahe hain." (This is a family heirloom necklace, my child. Dadisa gave it to us, and now we are giving it to you.) 

Kynat immediately shook her head. "No, Maa. It's too valuable."

Vaishali gently cupped her cheek. "Tum uski keemat mat lagao. Bas pehno." (Don't measure its value. Just wear it.)

She carefully fastened the necklace around Kynat's neck. Then added matching bangles. A pair of traditional kangan, heavy. royal, magnificent. Tears suddenly burned behind Kynat's eyes because nobody had ever gifted her jewelry with love.

Vaishali noticed immediately but pretended not to because some tears deserved privacy. Then she pointed toward a folded red saree, rich crimson silk, resting on the bed. "Today you’ll wear this because today is your first rasoi."

Kynat's stomach dropped immediately. "Maa..."

Vaishali laughed and stood. "I knew you'd react like that. Don't worry. I'm with you." She squeezed Kynat's hand one last time before leaving. 

The moment Vaishali left, Kyant didn’t waste any time and quickly went to get ready. An hour later she went downstairs, a maid showed her the way to the kitchen, and she went there. She stood outside the enormous palace kitchen. The red saree hugged her frame elegantly. Taking a deep breath, she stepped inside. Immediately every servant straightened, every maid and chef bowed.

"Pranam Maharani Sa."

Kynat nearly turned around to see who they were talking to. Then remembered. They meant her. Before she could respond, a familiar voice interrupted Nandini. She leaned casually against the counter.  "Ah. The new bahu is finally in Ranawat’s kitchen for her Pehli Rasoi." Priya, who was standing beside Nandini, scrolling through her phone. Without even looking up she added, "Let's hope she knows the difference between salt and sugar." 

Kynat lowered her head and tried to ignore them. "I know how to cook."

Nandini raised one eyebrow, her gaze slowly travelled over Kynat. "Really? That's surprising." The insult was obvious. Kynat clenched her jaw but remained silent. Priya smirked. "We're just joking." Then she looked up. "Unless you're actually offended?"  Vaishali entered at that exact moment before they could taunt Kynat more. Her eyes narrowed instantly. "Nandini Bhabhi, what are you doing here? Your husband was looking for you, he couldn't find some file."

Nandini signs and leaves with Priya. As they left, Vaishali moved beside Kynat. "The family will be watching. Don’t be afraid, alright. Make whatever you feel is good.” Kynat nodded. Vaishali squeezed her hand. Then smiled softly, mischievous. "If Nandini annoys you too much, accidentally drop extra chilli in her food."  Kynat nearly choked and laughed. 

Kyanat turned and entered the kitchen and started chopping but the entire family had gathered in the adjacent dining room, their eyes fixed on her through the open kitchen door.   Dadisa beside Dadasa her expression is carved from stone. Nandini whispered something to Priya, who smirked. Yashwant pretended to read the newspaper, but his eyes kept flicking toward her. Raghav and Nisha sat in silence, their twins Kian and Kyra looking bored on their phones.  Only Vaishali stood beside Kynat in the kitchen, offering quiet guidance.

The kitchen staff helped her with the chopping and prep, but she did the cooking herself. Her hands moved automatically, her mind focused on not burning anything. Three hours later, she was done.  Kynat was exhausted. Her arms ached from kneading dough. Her feet throbbed from standing for so long. But the food was ready.

Kynat stood near the kitchen door, her hands trembling slightly, watching as the servants carried her food to the table.  One seat was empty at the far end. Veer's seat. The servants had already laid out the food—her food—on the table.On the dining: dal makhani that had simmered to perfection, paneer butter masala that glistened with cream, fresh naan straight from the tandoor, a biryani layered with saffron and fried onions, and a dessert—gulab jamun that she had rolled by hand.  

Finally, the door opened, and Aadrash wheeled Veer into the room. Dadasa cleared his throat. "The new bahu has prepared today's meals. Let us see if she is worthy of the Ranawat name." The servants began serving. The first person to take a bite was Dadasa. He chewed slowly. Swallowed. Said nothing.Then Dadisa. Then Yashwant. Then— "Yeh kya hai?" (What is this?)  Nandini spat out her bite. "Dal main namak hai isme Ki zeher?" (There’s salt in the lentils… or is it poison?)

Kynat's heart stopped. "Magar humne namak sahi daala tha" (But I put the salt correctly.) 

Nandini looked horrified. “Then why does it taste like this?"  Nisha immediately joined. "You do know how to cook, don't you?  Still you’ve made completely worse food." 

"The paneer is undercooked," Yashwant added. "The rice is mushy."  Raghav added. "This is what happens when you let a poor girl cook for royalty," Priya said sweetly. "She doesn't know the standards."

One by one, they found something wrong with every dish. Kynat sat frozen, her face burning with humiliation, her eyes started watering as she thinks I spent three hours on this. Three hours.  Her tears were about to fall but then finally Veer spoke  "Aaj ka khaana bahut accha bana hai." (Today's food is excellent.)

The room froze. Nandini, Nisha, Priya blinked. Every single person present in the room froze in complete shock.  Even Dadisa and Dadasa because Veer never praised anyone. Ever. Vaishali immediately smiled and took another bite.  "Veer is right, Beta. You’ve made it very well."

Kynat stared, completely stunned. Veer continued eating as though he hadn't just destroyed every criticism in the room. He reached for the dal—the same dal that Nandini had called too salty—and took a bite. Everyone watched, and Nandini tried again. "But Veer—" Veer finally lifted his eyes. Not toward Nandini. Toward Kynat and her breath caught. For several seconds, the entire world disappeared. Then he spoke. "Aaj raat ko bhi yahi khaana banana."  (Make this same food again tonight.)

Dadasa cleared his throat. "Ye dal bohot phiki hai… humare yahan aisi nahi banti. Humein nahi pasand—" (This dal is very bland…It’s not the way we used to have. I don’t like it—)

But Veer cut Dadasa off in the middle. "Humein pasand hai."  His voice was cold, final. "Aur jo humare ghar mein rehta hai, woh wahi khana khayega jo Veer Ranawat ki Biwi banayegi. Pasand ho ya na ho." (And whoever lives in this house will eat only the food made by Veer Ranawat’s wife. Whether they like it or not.)

Nobody dared to speak. Because everyone knew. The conversation was over. Veer had ended it. Kynat stared at Veer, confused and shocked. She lost in lots of questions. Why was he helping me? Last night he threw me out. This morning he ignored me. And now he was defending me. Then suddenly, his voice came again. "Kya dekh rahi ho? Wahan khadi mat rahiye. Aakar baithiye yahan."  (What are you looking at? Don’t just stand there. Come and sit here.) 

Kynat looked around, confused. Then deliberately chose a chair far away from Veer. But unfortunately, Veer noticed. And immediately ruined her plan. "Mere paas." (Beside me.) 

Vaishali bit the inside of her cheek trying desperately not to laugh. Dadisa looked ready to faint. Nandini looked ready to commit murder. And Kynat? She looked like she'd forgotten how to function. Slowly, she walked toward the empty seat beside him and sat down. The moment Kynat sat beside Veer, she could practically feel the hatred radiating from the rest of the table. She lowered her gaze and quietly picked up her spoon. Her heart was hammering violently. Veer simply continued eating as though forcing her to sit beside him was completely normal. And somewhere across the table, Vaishali smiled proudly. Because for the first time in years her son wasn't sitting alone.

Finally the meal ended. The men stood first, eager to escape with stupid excuses like business calls, meetings, work. Truthfully, nobody wanted to stay around Veer longer than necessary. His younger cousins Priya, Kyra, Kian mumbled something about college and escaped. And Veer, he is still eating, silently. Then Aadrash appeared beside him. "Hukum. The car is ready."  Veer nodded. He wiped his mouth, set down his napkin, and wheeled toward the door. Vaishali stopped him. "Beta," she said, holding out a small bowl of kheer made by Kynat (rice pudding.) "Take this. You didn't eat dessert."

For a second Kynat thought he'd refuse. Instead, something changed in his eyes. Just for a second softness which one before anyone could properly see it. He accepted the bite. Without complaint and wheeled away with Aadrash. The moment he was gone, the women turned on Kynat. Nandini leaned back a cruel smile spreading across her face. "So. The new bahu works fast."

Kynat looked up. "What does that mean?" Nandini crossed her arms. Oh don't act innocent. Yesterday you arrived. Today Veer is defending you. What an achievement." 

Kynat's jaw tightened. "I did nothing."  

"Of course you did." Meera laughed. "Girls like you never ask.. Whores who—"  Vaishali set down her spoon, the sound echoed sharply. "Careful," Vaishali said quietly. "Watch your mouth, Meera. Don’t forget your manners." Dadisa's eyes moved toward Kynat. "This girl has much to learn. Kynat, you will learn to cook properly. You will learn to manage this household. You will learn to be a Ranawat. If you fail, you will be sent back to your family in disgrace. Do you understand?"

Kynat lowered her head respectfully. "I know, Dadisa. I know I have a lot to learn. And I will." Dadisa remained silent for several seconds. Then finally, "Hmm." A few minutes later the women finally dispersed. Leaving only Kynat and Vaishali behind. "Why aren't you eating anything, beta..?"  Vaishali asked softly. Kynat opened her mouth. Then closed it. Before she could answer, Vaishali picked up a piece of roti, dipped it into the dal and held it toward her. “Eat, Beta." 

Kynat froze. The simple gesture shattered something inside because no one had ever done this after her mother had died. Tears suddenly filled her eyes. Vaishali immediately noticed.  "What happened?"  Kynat's lips trembled. Then finally, the truth escaped, her voice broke. "Maa ke Jaane ke baad kisi ne...kisi ne humein kabhi pyar se nahi khilaya." (After my mother's death…no one has ever fed me with love.)

Vaishali stared at her, her own eyes glistened. Then slowly, she cupped Kynat's face, like a mother. "Pagal ladki. Ab main hoon na." (Silly girl. Now I'm here.) Kynat finally broke.  But Vaishali held her anyway, stroking her hair, murmuring soft words. When the tears finally stopped, Vaishali smiled and both mother in law and daughter-in-law ate together. 

— — —

After the disastrous lunch, all the men in Ranawat’s industry. Hundreds of employees stood the second Veer entered the building. Veer ignored every single one and pushed wheels through the lobby towards the boardroom. Veer wheeled into the boardroom of Ranawat Industries. The room was on the fifteenth floor, all glass and chrome, with a view of the Jaisalmer skyline. A long mahogany table dominated the space, surrounded by leather chairs. At the head of the table, where the CEO sat, there was a special space cleared for Veer's wheelchair. Veer rolled toward the head of the table. 

The board was already assembled. Dadasa, Yashwant ,Vikram , Raghav and several investors and directors shifted uncomfortably under Veer's gaze. "Good morning, Hukum," the board members mumbled. But veer only says. "Shall we begin?" The meeting proceeded predictably. Quarterly reports. Profit margins. Expansion plans. New projects. Veer listened more than he spoke. Then Vikram cleared his throat. "There is one more matter. The Rajasthan textile contract." Veer's eyes slowly lifted. Then Yashwant cleared his throat. "We've had offers from three other companies. The Patels. The Mehtas. And the Sethias." Dadasa spoke next. "They're offering three times market value. Three times, Veer." 

Even some board members nodded. The amount was ridiculous. Any businessman would jump at it. Except Veer, he simply stared, dangerously expressionless. Then Vikram spoke. "The Sethias are Rich. Powerful. Ambitious. That's not an opportunity we can ignore."  

Veer's eyes narrowed. "Really?" The single word made Vikram freeze. Veer leaned back slightly, his gaze never leaving him. "Interesting. But tell me, how do you know so much about them?" Vikram's face lost color. Yashwant and Raghav looked away. "I—" Vikram swallowed. "I only know what everyone knows." Finally Raghav tried to intervene. "I think we should at least meet them." Veer's eyes shifted toward him and Raghav immediately regretted existing.

Veer nodded slowly.  "Hmm. You are correct. Any businessman offering such a large amount deserves attention. But whoever makes a significant offer in business, we must know everything about them. So now, this deal and meeting will only happen… Once I know everything about those Sethias. And especially the things they don't want us to know."  

"What nonsense!" Vikram suddenly snapped. "This deal is worth crores!" Vikram stood, anger flashing across his face. "You keep delaying everything! Because of your paranoia… Maybe if you spent less time obsessing over enemies and more time fixing your own life. He laughed bitterly, gaze moved toward the wheelchair. "After all...your ugly face and this chair have already caused enough problems for this family."

The entire room froze. Aadrash closed his eyes because Vikram had just signed his own death warrant. For several seconds nothing happened. Then Veer calmly reached into his coat and pulled out his gun. Several board members nearly fell from their chairs. The barrel slowly turned pointing directly toward Vikram. "Repeat that."

Vikram immediately started sweating. "I..."

Veer's eyes turned ice cold.  "Jo aadmi khud theek se paida nahi hua...woh Veer Ranawat ko sikhaayega?" (A man who himself wasn’t even born properly… he’ll teach Veer Ranawat?) Vikram stumbled backward. Fear finally replacing arrogance. Before things could escalate, Dadasa slammed his hand against the table. "Enough!" His voice cracked through the room. For several seconds both men stared at each other. Finally Dadasa sighed. "The Sethia contract will not move without your approval."

Veer stared at Dadasa. "Fine." The gun disappeared. Just as quickly as it had appeared. "This meeting is over." Everyone released their breath simultaneously. 

— — —

By time, the sun had already begun its descent. The golden city of Jaisalmer glowed outside the palace windows.  Veer sat alone near the floor-to-ceiling window of his private office room. A cigarette burned between his fingers, smoke curled around him. Aadrash entered without disturbing the silence. Veer took another drag. Then finally spoke. "Show me." 

Aadrash immediately understood, he picked up a remote and pressed a button. The largest screen in the room flickered alive. On the screen, footage played not from the palace, but from the Alwar mansion in Jaipur. Yesterday’s footage. Veer's gaze sharpened. On screen... Kynat stood near the staircase. Then came Subhash signing the contract. And then, Vicky. The footage had shown everything—the way Vicky grabbed her wrist, the way he spoke to her. Veer's jaw tightened. The cigarette bent slightly beneath Veer's grip. Then Kynat’s slap. Aadrash almost smiled. Veer didn't because all he saw was the tears in Kynat’s eyes. 

" The button camera worked well,"  Veer said. " Aadrash, your tailoring is exceptional." 

Aadrash touched his shirt collar—the place where the microscopic camera had been hidden during the Alwar family’s visit.  " Every moment was recorded, Hukum. The father’s signature. The stepmother’s greed. And the stepbrother’s..."  Aadrash paused, his jaw tightening.  "His behavior was unforgivable." 

Veer’s eyes didn’t leave the screen. "Show me the photographs." Aadrash tapped a tablet. The monitor shifted to a series of images, flashing one by one: Subhash Alwar – Kynat’s father. Sudha Alwar – The stepmother. And then, finally: Vicky Alwar. The image froze on the screen.  Veer stared. The cigarette had burned down to the filter. He crushed it in an ashtray with more force than necessary. The anger burned inside his eyes. "Vicky Alwar." The name sounded like poison. "Pata lagao. iske sar ke baal se lekar pair ke naakhun ke tak, sab kuch."  (Find everything. From the hair on his head...to the dirt beneath his nails.) 

Aadrash nodded. "As you command, Hukum."

Veer picked up another cigarette, lit it, and he took a long drag, then exhaled, his brown eyes  watching the smoke curl toward the ceiling. And for the first time his thoughts weren't on business, contracts or enemies.his mind was chaos, named.

Kynat.  

— — —

Meanwhile, back at the palace. Kynat's day was far from over. The moment the clock struck six in the evening, Vaishali gently informed her that dinner preparations needed to begin. Kynat immediately headed toward the kitchen. Ready to prove herself again. But the moment she entered, Nandini smiled. "Ah." Nandini clapped dramatically. "Our Maharani has arrived." Kynat tried to ignore her.

"Did you hear me?" Nandini called sweetly. Kynat turned. "Ji?" Then Nisha pointed toward a massive sack. "Those vegetables cut them."

Kynat looked shocked. There were enough vegetables to feed a wedding. "...All of them?" 

"Of course." Meera smiled. "Unless Maharani Sa gets tired." 

Kynat knew she couldn't do anything so she silently picked up a knife and began to chop the vegetables. Every time she finished one task, another appeared. "Wash these." "Arrange those." "Move this." "Clean that."

And somehow, the palace staff never received these orders. Only Kynat.The servants looked uncomfortable. Several even tried helping. But Dadisa immediately stopped them. "Let her work. How else will she learn?" 

Kynat looked like she wanted to throw a knife at her head. Instead, she smiled at everyone. That somehow annoyed the women even more. Two hours later, her fingers, wrists, and back hurt. By eight o'clock, dinner was finally ready. Kynat released a relieved breath. She was exhausted but at least it was over. She made her way back upstairs towards her room for some rest but she collided with someone. Strong hands grabbed her waist.

"Careful, beautiful." Kynat froze immediately. The smell hit first. Alcohol. Lots of alcohol. Then she looked up. Kian Ranawat veer’s younger cousin. Tall. Spoiled. And drunk. A whiskey bottle dangled lazily from his fingers. He grinned. "Oops. Looks like destiny wants us to meet."

Kynat immediately stepped back. Kian's eyes slowly travelled over her. "You're prettier up close." The look made her uncomfortable. "Kian ji..." Kian hummed. "Hmm?" Kynat looked down. "Please move." He smiled wider. "Why?" Her voice became firmer. "Kian ji. I need to go." 

But instead of stepping aside Kian leaned against the wall, blocking the path. "Do you know....half the city was talking about you today." Kynat looked up at him, surprised. "Really?"  He took another sip. "They're calling you the most beautiful Maharani Jaisalmer has ever seen." 

Kynat smiled at the compliment. "Kya aap sach bol rahai hai..?" Kian just smiled "Mhm, Yes." Then suddenly, a cold voice echoed from the corridor. 

"Kian."

 Kian's face falls immediately. Because he recognized that voice. Slowly he turned. Veer sat at the end of the hallway, wheelchair motionless. He stared at him with icy glare, expression unreadable. "What are you doing?" Kian immediately straightened, cursed under his breath. "Nothing." He mumbled and walked away.

The moment he disappeared, Veer's gaze shifted toward Kynat. Then without saying a word.  He simply wheeled away. And somehow that annoyed Kynat. "Ajeeb aadmi." (Strange man.)

She continued walking. Only to suddenly remember her suitcase still in Veer's room. "...Oh no."  After several minutes of arguing with herself, she finally reached his room. The door was slightly open. She stepped inside. The room was empty. “Thank god." Quickly she began searching. Near the wardrobe. Nothing. Near the sofa. Nothing. Near the desk. Still nothing.

Then a voice came from behind her.  "Interesting." Kynat froze. Slowly she turned. Her heart almost stopped. Veer stood near the entrance watching her. "Phir se. Humaari ijazat ke bina humaare kamre mein?" (Again. Entering my room without permission?) 

Kynat instantly pointed a finger. "Excuse me. Humein koi shauk nahi hai ki hum aapke kamre mein aaye. Humara suitcase yahan reh gaya hai, hum usse hi lene aaye hain." (I have no desire to come into your room. My suitcase was left here, so I came to take it.) Veer looked mildly surprised but he hid it and slowly nodded. "Hmm." 

Kynat shot him a sharp glance, the kind that carried irritation. "Bas hmm?" (That's all?)

Veer gave another indifferent, “Hmm.” Kynat’s irritation flared. She crossed her arms. "You are impossible."  Veer’s reply was as flat as ever. "Hmm."  Kynat looked ready to strangle her husband. For the first time all day Veer almost smiled.  Her patience was fraying. " What hmm, hmm, hmm..? You know normal people actually answer properly." 

Veer didn’t even blink.  "And normal people don't enter other people's rooms." 

She clenched her jaw.  "You are unbelievable." 

"So I've heard." His voice was maddeningly steady. 

She folded her arms, voice rising. "You repeat yourself too much." 

He let the faintest smirk tug at his lips.  "And you complain too much." The silence that followed was ridiculous. Then he pointed toward a side room. "Your suitcase." Kynat immediately marched over and found her suitcase, but before she could grab it, he added another taunt, "Aur dobara humare kamre mein mat aaiyega." (And don’t come into my room again.) 

Kynat opened her mouth to retort, but Veer didn’t wait for her reaction, he turned and wheeled into the bathroom to freshen up. Kynat stood frozen, her irritation boiling over. Then she rolled her eyes and muttered under her breath, "Mr. Nakchhadi." (Mr. Grumpy). Caught up in her anger, she stormed out of his room, completely forgetting the very reason she had come. The suitcase remained untouched in the corner. 

By the time Kynat reached the dining hall glittered beneath the crystal chandelier. Dadisa sat at her usual seat, her face carved from stone. Dadasa beside her. Yashwant and Vikram scrolling through business messages. Raghav speaks quietly on a phone call. Nandini, Meera and Nisha whispered among themselves. Priya and Kyra smirking while scrolling through Instagram. And Kian, looking suspiciously hungover. The moment Kynat entered several pairs of eyes landed on her. Meera taunts her. "Aakhir aa hi gayi Maharani Sa." (Our Queen finally decided to arrive.) 

Everyone smirks but Kynat lowers her head and quietly moves toward the serving area, helping the staff arrange dishes. She didn't notice Veer entering. But everyone else did and the atmosphere changed immediately. Veer occupied his usual seat without acknowledging anyone. His eyes briefly moved across the room. Then stopped on Kynat. For a fleeting moment, his gaze softened. Kynat, unaware of his lingering look, adjusted her dupatta with a huff. She’s impossible, he thought. Admiration flickered, he quickly masked it, leaning back into his usual coldness. 

Dinner began. The servants started serving food. And naturally, Nandini couldn't stay quiet. "Kynat."

Kynat looked up. "Ji?" (Yes?)  Nandini pointed toward the dishes. "Khaadi hi rahogi? Ya khaana bhi parosogi?" (Will you keep standing there or will you actually serve food?)  

Kynat immediately stepped forward to serve. But before she could move something stopped her. Because someone had grabbed the end of her saree pallu. The entire dining hall fell silent. Slowly, she turned. Veer. Of course. One hand held his spoon, the other her pallu. He wasn’t even looking at her. One hand held his spoon and the other held her pallu. As though grabbing his wife's saree in front of the entire family was the most natural thing in the world. Kynat’s breath caught, her cheeks flushed crimson. The family stared, waiting. Finally, Veer spoke, without lifting his head. "Aap iss mahal ki Maharani ban gayi ho....lekin abhi tak yeh nahi pata chala ki khaana apne pati ke saath khaate hain?" (You've become the Queen of this palace...yet you still don't know that a wife eats with her husband?) 

Kynat's brain completely stopped working. Vaishali instantly lowered her head trying desperately not to laugh. Because her son was impossible. Then, his voice came again. "Subah bhi kaha tha. Baar baar nahi bolenge hum."  (I told you this morning too. I won't repeat myself again.)  

Kynat simply stared. Because somehow the order sounded more intimate than anything he had ever said. His words landed heavy, not just as a taunt but as a claim. The hall remained hushed, elders exchanging glances. Slowly she walked toward the empty seat beside him and sat down. The moment she sat, Dadisa finally spoke. "Veer." His spoon continued moving. "Hmm?" 

Dadisa narrowed her eyes. "Don’t you think you’re taking a stand for her a bit too much… and she’s only just arrived yesterday?" Veer finally looked up. "What exactly are you trying to say?" Dadisa's expression hardened. "I'm saying that a new bahu should learn discipline." Kynat immediately lowered her gaze. 

Veer calmly took another bite. “My discipline says… my wife will sit and eat with me.” Kynat’s heart skipped and blush deepened because somehow without raising his voice, saying anything romantic or even looking at her… Veer had defended her again. And that confused her more than anything.

The food was finally served. Everyone began eating. Then predictably, Nandini opened her mouth. "The sabzi—" Nandini’s voice had barely formed the word sabzi when the metallic click silenced her. The entire table froze. Because Veer had casually pulled out a gun with one hand while continuing to eat with the other.  He lay it beside his plate, black and loaded, as casually placed as a spoon. He didn’t even glance up—just continued eating. 

Kynat nearly choked on her water, his cousins froze mid‑bite. Yashwant and Vikram both son and father bent lower over their food as though it had suddenly become fascinating. Dadisa closed her eyes, resigned. Dadasa knew his grandson too well. Vaishali just smirks. 

Finally, Veer’s voice cut through the silence, calm and deliberate: "Kuch keh rahi thi aap, Badi Maa?" (Were you saying something, Badi Maa?)

Nandini’s face was drained of color. She stammered, "N‑no, beta… very good, keep making food like this. We’ll eat just like this."  The family’s eyes darted between the gun and Veer, but no one dared speak. 

And for the first time since stepping into Ranawat Palace, Kynat had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing. Because Nandini’s expression—caught between terror and forced sweetness—was absolutely priceless.