Chapter 77 – Claiming Love, Celebrating Life

The hall was packed—the college staff, business partners, and close family—all gathered for what seemed like another formal announcement. Veeresh stepped forward, every eye drawn to him. He glanced at Poornima, who stood beside him, calm but still fragile, and their son cradled gently in her arms.

Clearing his throat, Veeresh’s voice rang out, commanding yet tender:

“Everyone here knows me as Veeresh Raj. But the truth is… the woman beside me is not just my partner in life—she is my wife. Mrs. Poornima Veeresh Raj.”

A hush fell. Gasps. Some colleagues blinked in disbelief. Business associates exchanged surprised looks. But the warmth in Veeresh’s eyes, the firm grip on Poornima’s hand, left no room for doubt.

“This little one,” Veeresh continued, lifting their son so everyone could see, “is our pride, our joy, and a symbol of our bond. I am proud to present our son to you all.”

The crowd erupted in congratulations. Smiles, applause, and heartfelt wishes filled the hall. Poornima’s eyes glistened, tears threatening to fall, but Veeresh gently wiped them away with the back of his thumb.

Back at their home, the naming ceremony of their son was arranged beautifully. Flowers adorned every corner, soft music played, and the warmth of family filled the rooms. Poornima, now fully embraced by Veeresh’s household, carried her baby carefully, glowing with happiness and love.

Veeresh leaned close, his voice gentle but full of pride:

“Feed him your milk, Poornima. This is your bond, your love, your gift to him.”

Poornima looked at him, her eyes filled with gratitude and a deep, renewed love. She smiled softly and nodded, placing their son to her breast. Veeresh’s hand rested over hers, both guiding and protecting, his expression softening into a lover, a husband, a father—fulfilled in every way.

The room was alive with celebration, yet for Veeresh and Poornima, the world had shrunk to just the three of them—their son, their love, and the life they had fought so fiercely to claim.

And in that quiet, intimate moment amidst the grandeur, Veeresh whispered softly in her ear:

“Forever, Mrs. Raj… you, me, and our little one. No one, nothing, will ever take this away.”

Poornima smiled through tears, and the little one stirred, a tiny fist curling against her chest—a perfect, living testament of their journey together.