124 The Shattered Dreams

For a few seconds Dev could not process what Aman said. But once he did, it seemed like lightning struck on him. His entire being collapsed on the ground.

With a loud cry, Aman got up from the lounge chair and knelt beside Dev, "Dev, are you- are you alright?"

Dev held Aman's hand and grasped it tightly, "you are joking right?"

"Just say it! Tell me it's a prank! Tell me Apple!!"

But Aman could only shake his head, "I am sorry, Dev. I am not kidding. It actually happened. My engagement is fixed in a week."

Dev asked shakily, "with who- whom?"

Aman didn't meet his eyes, "Prince Som Takshaka."

Dev whispered almost inaudibly, "how?"

Aman looked at his hands. Tears were threatening to spill outside of his eyes, "it happened two days ago….."

*******

The Vasuki Palace was looking forward to their Prince's return. Aman and his family were enjoying a peaceful evening.