The warmth Yamini had grown up knowing was completely missing.
Her chest tightened.
“The announcement event,” Rani Suchitra continued, “will formally introduce you as the Jogra Maharani to the royal community, the press, and associated dignitaries. I am calling to inform you that preparations are underway and your presence will be required.”
“I understand,” Yamini said, trying to keep her voice steady. “But I… I haven’t informed my family yet.”
There was silence.
“You have had sufficient time,” Rani Suchitra said at last.
Yamini knew she was right. Nearly two weeks had passed since the wedding, but Yamini had yet to inform her parents.
She hadn't told them because telling them would make it real. Undeniable. And some stubborn, self-protective part of her had been waiting. For what exactly she still didn’t know. But she expected Bharat Jogra to do something that would publicly humiliate her or destroy her.
“Things have been… strained with my family. But I will let them know.”
There was another pause. Longer this time.
“I see,” Rani Suchitra replied. Yamini wasn’t sure whether she imagined a slight softening in tone.
“But do not take too long,” Rani Suchitra added. “The announcement cannot be delayed beyond what is necessary. The longer it is withheld, the more it becomes a problem.”
“I understand,” Yamini said again. “I'll speak to them soon.”
“See that you do,” Rani Suchitra said. And then, there was a small pause before she added, “Take care of yourself, Yamini.”
The line disconnected.
Yamini stood holding the phone for a moment longer than necessary.
Take care of yourself.
It wasn't warmth. But it wasn't coldness either.
She lowered the phone slowly.
Pooja nearly exploded. “Oh my god. Rani Suchitra Devi called you!”
Yamini nodded. “She wants to make a formal announcement of the marriage.”
“Of course! The world should know you are the Jogra maharani!”
Yamini wasn’t too sure about that. “I don’t know about the world. But I have to tell my parents for sure.”
Pooja waved her hand. “Your parents will be happy and excited. Who wouldn’t want the Jogra maharaja as their son-in-law!”
Yamini knew that was true.
“Call your parents and tell them right away. I’m leaving now.” Pooja picked up her handbag. Then she looked at Yamini with a mischievous grin. “I can’t wait for the announcement. The world should know. And more importantly… Tina Mehta should know.”
Despite herself, Yamini laughed.
As soon as Pooja left, Yamini went to the editing room and shut the door.
It was silent inside.
She then pulled up her mother's contact number and dialed it.
