When Poornima’s pregnancy news spread through the haveli, the air shifted. The tension that had been hanging like a storm cloud for weeks suddenly lightened. Smiles replaced suspicious glances, and for the first time in a long while, the sound of laughter floated through the corridors.

Her mother-in-law placed her palm gently on Poornima’s head. “This is good news, beta. This house will finally hear the cries and giggles of a child again.”

Veeresh stood beside her, one arm resting protectively around her shoulders. He looked around at the gathered relatives, his voice firm but calm.

“She’s not leaving this house,” he said, his tone carrying more weight than just the words.

Poornima turned her face to him, reading the layers in his eyes—the fear, the love, the determination. “Okay,” she said softly. “I will not leave.”

But he wasn’t done. He bent slightly so they were at eye level and, in a voice meant only for her, whispered, “You won’t leave me either.”

Her lips curved into a warm, reassuring smile. “No. Never.”

That smile—simple, genuine, and full of unshakable faith—broke through the last of his defenses. Veeresh’s heart swelled, and for the first time in weeks, he allowed himself to believe that maybe… just maybe… everything could still be okay.

He didn’t say anything more. He didn’t have to. He just took her hand and held it tightly, silently promising he would never let her go.