Chapter 3: An Old Friendship

The next morning, the atmosphere in Rathore Palace was quiet.

Mahendra Rathore folded the newspaper and looked at his son and grandson.

Mahendra: "Mahesh, I'm leaving for Bikaner today."

Mahesh looked up in surprise.

Mahesh: "So suddenly, Bauji?"

Mahendra smiled.

Mahendra: "It's been a long time since I met an old friend."

He turned towards the family driver.

Mahendra: "Vijay, arrange a car for me. I'll leave within an hour."

Vijay: "Yes, Bade Saab."

As Mahesh and Veeresh watched him, Mahendra picked up his phone and dialed a familiar number.

The call was answered almost immediately.

Haji Kareem: "Assalamu Alaikum, Mahendra!"

Mahendra chuckled.

Mahendra: "Wa Alaikum Assalam, Haji. How are you, my old friend?"

Haji Kareem: "I'm doing well. What a surprise! After so many days, you've remembered me."

Mahendra: "I'm coming to Bikaner."

There was a moment of silence before Haji Kareem laughed happily.

Haji Kareem: "Really? Then there's no excuse. We'll meet at our regular place."

Mahendra: "Exactly why I called."

Haji Kareem: "What time will you reach?"

Mahendra: "By afternoon."

Mahendra's voice became playful.

Mahendra: "And Haji... don't forget the kheer."

Haji Kareem laughed loudly.

Haji Kareem: "The one prepared by me?"

Mahendra: "Who else? Your kheer is still the best."

Haji Kareem: "Done! I'll make it fresh. Just don't be late."

Mahendra: "I wouldn't miss it for anything."

Both old friends laughed before ending the call.

Mahesh smiled as he watched his father.

Mahesh: "It's been years since I've seen you this happy."

Mahendra's eyes softened.

Mahendra: "Some friendships never grow old, Mahesh. Kareem and I have stood by each other for decades. Time may change many things, but true friendship remains the same."

Veeresh smiled faintly.

Veeresh: "Give my regards to Haji Uncle."

Mahendra: "I will."

Within an hour, the car was ready.

Mahendra Rathore offered a silent prayer before stepping into the vehicle.

As the gates of Rathore Palace opened, the car began its journey towards Bikaner, where an old friend waited with a warm embrace, heartfelt conversations, and a bowl of homemade kheer that carried the sweetness of memories spanning a lifetime.