1. The gratuitous and, to be honest, puzzling use of random capitalization, probably meant to evoke a commanding air.
2. That sanctimonious tone Kiran had when talking about their “alliance.” (Or, rather, “Alliance.”) How this all plays out remains to be seen? As if he and his family were conferring a great favor upon the Raos by even considering them still. Despite the recent… problems… the Raos were still more powerful than the Hegdes would ever be.
3. Girls in trouble need their parents. Supposedly “we all” know that. Really, Kiran? I must’ve missed the announcement when you earned your PhD in Expertise on Women, Even Though No One Asked for Your Opinion.
4. Who signed their personal emails with their complete royal title??

Before she could stop herself, her fingers were flying across the keyboard, tapping out a response.

Dear Kiran,

I AM SorRy mY faMILy siTUAtion haS Been sO HarD on You. WHAT Can I DO to MaKe It BetTer? YoU Are The GUY, so CleArLY You KnOw BeST.

Jaya sat back, breathing harder, and stared at the screen. She really, really wanted to send the message. But she knew that wasn’t how royals were supposed to act. Sending the email was something an uncouth brute like Grey Emerson would do. She, on the other hand, was Jaya Rao—always poised, always self-possessed.

Jaya sat thinking for a few minutes, absentmindedly playing with her tie. Then she typed a more appropriate response to Kiran’s email.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Subject: Re: Hi from Kiran

Hi Kiran,

It was nice to hear from you. Thank you for the update re: Mysuru. I’m disappointed that the media continues to libel my family, but as you said, this is for the best. I’m staying strong for my parents and Isha.

How was the meeting with the tax attorney? Your previous email about the land taxes on your estate was fascinating. You’re right, if the Hegde/Rao estates were merged, we might well make the accounting easier.

All right, I must go. I hope you’re well. Give my best to your parents, won’t you?

Regards,

Jaya

Jaya closed her laptop and sighed at the notion of an “alliance” between the Raos and the Hegdes. Not that it was completely bizarre. In fact, for so long, it had seemed the right thing to do, the way forward that would benefit both their families. But now, with some time and distance (and honestly, looking over their tepid email history), Jaya found herself waffling.

A lifetime with Kiran? Someone she had no spark with, no friendship with? Someone who, as far as she could tell, was only with her also out of a sense of duty? Whatever would they talk about over dinner—tax laws? Whether or not the crops were getting enough rain? The very thought bored her nearly to tears. And didn’t Kiran deserve better too?