The morning sun spilled into the Rathore haveli, painting the marble floors with soft gold. The aroma of cardamom tea drifted through the corridors as the family gathered in the main hall. Veeresh, dressed in his professor’s crisp white kurta, walked in with the calm authority that made people listen when he spoke.

Poornima followed a step behind, her hair neatly braided, her eyes lowered in quiet respect—but inside, her heart was pounding. She didn’t know how the conversation would go.

---

The Discussion

His father, Thakur Virendra Singh Rathore, sat at the head of the room, a man whose word was law in the household. The elders sipped tea in silence until Veeresh spoke.

“Bauji,” he began firmly, “Poornima will complete her studies.”

The murmur started instantly. One of the older women frowned.

“In this family, our bahus do not go out for education after marriage.”

Veeresh’s gaze didn’t waver. “She is in her last semester. Only her exams remain. And…”—he let the weight of his next words settle—“…she studies at the same university where I teach. She will come with me, write her exams, and return. There is no risk to family honor.”

The silence thickened. His father studied him for a long moment, searching for defiance.

Finally, the Thakur leaned back.

“Fine. I have no problem. Let her finish it.”

Poornima’s head lifted, eyes wide with relief. She wanted to smile—but held it in until they left the hall.

---

The Gratitude

Back in their chamber, the door clicked shut and her restraint crumbled. She stepped forward, wrapping her arms tightly around him.

“Thank you… so much,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “You don’t know what this means to me.”

Veeresh looked down at her, seeing the tears shimmering in her eyes. His lips curved into the faintest smile.

Without a word, he cupped her face and kissed her—deeply, slowly, with a passion that spoke more than any answer could.

When he pulled back, his voice was low, almost commanding.

“Kiss back.”

Her cheeks flushed, but she obeyed, returning the kiss with shy hesitation.

When their lips parted, he brushed his thumb over her cheekbone.

“You will listen to me, Poornima.”

She nodded softly. “…I will.”

He bent down, pressing a gentle peck to her cheek, his smile still lingering.

“Good. Now get ready—you start studying today.”