Chapter 2: A Palace Full of Silence

Rajgarh was known for its rich heritage, grand forts, and the influential Rathore family.

Among them stood Veeresh Rathore, a forty-year-old businessman who had built one of Rajasthan's largest business empires. His companies employed thousands of people, and despite his busy schedule, he spent much of his time working for the development of Rajgarh. Whether it was improving schools, hospitals, or providing employment to the youth, Veeresh always believed that his people came before profits.

To the outside world, he was a successful businessman and a respected leader.

Inside the Rathore Palace, however, he was simply a father whose own children wanted nothing to do with him.

His marriage with Radhika Rathore had ended in divorce four years ago. The separation had left deep scars, especially on their three children.

His eldest son, Yash Rathore, was seventeen years old. Intelligent and responsible, he rarely spoke to his father unless absolutely necessary.

His second child, Aarav Rathore, fifteen years old, had become rebellious. He ignored Veeresh's advice and often answered him with silence.

His youngest was twelve-year-old Aadhya Rathore, the princess of the Rathore family. She loved everyone except the one person who longed for her affection the most—her father.

One evening, the family gathered for dinner.

Veeresh: "Yash, how was school today?"

Without looking up, Yash replied.

Yash: "Fine."

Before Veeresh could continue, Aarav stood up.

Aarav: "I'm done."

He walked away without waiting for permission.

Veeresh sighed.

He turned toward his daughter.

Veeresh: "Aadhya, would you like to go horse riding this weekend? Just you and me."

Aadhya looked at him for a moment before lowering her eyes.

Aadhya: "Mom already made plans."

She quietly left the dining hall.

The large table suddenly felt emptier than ever.

Watching everything silently were Mahesh Rathore, Veeresh's father, and Mahendra Rathore, the respected patriarch of the Rathore family.

After the children left, Mahesh spoke.

Mahesh: "Beta, this can't go on forever."

Veeresh forced a smile.

Veeresh: "I'm trying, Papa."

Mahendra looked at his grandson with concern.

Mahendra: "A father shouldn't have to beg for his children's love."

Veeresh remained silent.

Mahesh placed a reassuring hand on his son's shoulder.

Mahesh: "The divorce ended your marriage, not your responsibility as a father. Don't give up."

Veeresh nodded.

Veeresh: "I won't. Even if they hate me today, I'll keep trying until they understand."

Mahendra sighed deeply.

Mahendra: "I worry about my great-grandchildren. They're growing up with anger in their hearts. And I worry about you, Veeresh. You've carried this pain alone for too long."

Veeresh looked out through the palace window at the lights of Rajgarh.

The entire town respected him.

People called him a leader, a philanthropist, and a man of honour.

Yet the three people whose love mattered the most barely spoke to him.

Little did Veeresh Rathore know that destiny was about to bring someone into his life who would change not only his future, but also the future of his broken family.