Chapter 7: Soft Eyes, Silent Hearts

The moonlight bathed the corridor in silver as Veeresh entered the house, loosening his collar. The scent of cardamom and warm dal drifted from the kitchen, drawing him in.

He looked around.

“Poornima…?” he called softly.

There she was — standing near the stove, arranging dinner on the plates. Her white saree clung to her frame, and as she bent slightly to set the chapatis, a glimpse of her waist peeked out.

Veeresh paused at the doorway, eyes fixed.

“You make it so hard to resist you, begum…” he thought, biting the inside of his cheek, trying to stay composed.

Just then, Poornima turned and caught him staring.

Their eyes locked for a brief second.

She rolled her eyes, but the faintest blush rose on her cheeks.

He chuckled under his breath and walked away toward their room.

Moments later, she followed him in silently and handed him a towel.

He took it, brushing his wet hair back, and noticed how her eyes avoided his.

He smirked. “Shukriya, Begum.”

She didn’t reply. Instead, she walked to the cupboard and picked out fresh clothes for him.

They walked down for dinner together — not hand in hand, but side by side, the air around them slowly changing.

Poornima served everyone with quiet grace. She placed a small extra helping on Veeresh’s plate without even realizing it.

He tasted the dal and looked at her.

“Tasty. Like always.”

She didn’t respond, but her lips twitched ever so slightly — not a smile, but not annoyance either.

After dinner, his parents looked pleased.

“Tomorrow is Friday. Go to Dargah together in the morning. Do a dua. It’ll be good.”

Both nodded.

“Okay, Amma.”

“Yes, Appa.” Poornima added softly.

Back in their room, Veeresh unbuttoned his kurta lazily and sat on the bed. Poornima took her pillow and turned away, as always.

But just as the lights dimmed, Veeresh pulled her gently toward him.

“Veeresh…” she whispered, startled.

He didn’t say much. Just kissed her on the cheek, gently, his lips lingering a moment longer than necessary.

“Good night, Begum.”

Her heart thumped louder. She turned away quickly, but whispered,

“Good night…”

They slept, not touching — but closer than they’d ever been in silence.