At Skand's Home – Living Room
Skand's Mother (curious and smiling):"So, dear, tell me—how did you and Skand meet?"
Draupadi (smiling warmly):"When father and Skand formed their alliance, I heard about him for the first time. I became curious about the man who impressed my father so much.Then we met on a blind date… and honestly, after spending time with him, I found him very different from others. Special."
Skand's Mother (proudly):"Well, of course he is! He's my son."
Hearing this, Draupadi let out a gentle laugh, her cheeks glowing with affection.
Skand's Mother (thinking to herself):After Malvi betrayed him, Skand had shut himself off from even the idea of marriage. He'd grow irritated whenever it came up. But now… seeing him open his heart again… I feel truly happy. Maybe his life will finally find peace.
Meanwhile, in the other side[Date Fixing]
Pandit (after checking his notes):"There are two auspicious dates available—one at the end of this month, and another early next year."
Suvana (turning to Utkarsh):"What do you say? Should we go for the date at the end of this month or wait until next year?"
Utkarsh (thinking for a moment):"I believe we should fix the wedding for the end of this month. Next year seems too far away."
Suvana (nodding to himself):Yes… that would be best. The sooner they marry, the better for everyone.
Just then, Skand entered the room. He looked exhausted, as if something heavy was weighing on him.
Skand (noticing the gathering):"Oh! Father-in-law, you're here too?"
Skand's Mother (teasing):"Why? Is he not allowed here?"
Skand:"No, no! I didn't mean it like that, I was just…"
He couldn't finish the sentence before being interrupted.
Utkarsh (playfully):"Look at our Skand! He's grown up so much—chose a bride for himself and didn't even tell us."
Skand (awkwardly, rubbing his head):"Uncle, it's not like that… I was really tired yesterday, so I didn't get a chance to say anything. And besides, I'd never do anything without telling you all eventually."
Suvana (cutting in with a smile):"Well, you've arrived at the perfect time. We've just fixed your wedding date with Draupadi—at the end of this month."
Skand (shocked inside):What?! So soon?!
Suvana (raising an eyebrow):"Why? Is there a problem?"
Utkarsh (narrowing his eyes at Skand):"Hmm? No issues at all, right, Skand?"
Skand (nervously):"N-No, no problem at all. It's just… I'm a bit tired today, so if you don't mind, I'd like to rest for a while. You elders can continue discussing the rest of the wedding plans."
He quietly walked off toward his room—completely unaware that someone's eyes were following him with growing concern.
Draupadi (to Skand's Mother):"Mom, I'll just go check on Skand."
Skand's Mother (smiling):"Of course, dear. Go ahead."
She then returned to talking with Suvana about the preparations and guest arrangements.
At Skand's Room
Skand lay back on his bed, eyes fixed on the ceiling, lost in thought—Ashoka's words still echoing in his mind.
Suddenly, there was a soft knock at the door.
Draupadi (gently):"Skand… may I come in?"
Skand (startled, sitting up slightly):"Y-Yes… of course."
Draupadi stepped inside, taking in the room's details as she walked toward the bed and sat down beside him. Her eyes scanned the space, but her focus was clearly on the man seated next to her.
To Be Continued...