The grand hall shimmered with lights, crystal chandeliers scattering golden rays across the marble floor. The Rathores had spared no expense — after all, their son’s wedding reception had to be a spectacle.

Veeresh stood at the entrance, dressed in the sharp black tuxedo Poornima had once picked for him. It fit him like a second skin, his aura dark, commanding, and impossible to ignore.

Beside him, Poornima walked in draped in the deep green saree he had secretly chosen months ago. The silk hugged her gently, and the emerald stones in her jewelry glistened under the spotlights. She looked like she belonged — though her shy smile betrayed her nerves.

“Stay with me,” Veeresh murmured under his breath, his hand brushing lightly against hers as if to anchor her.

The first to come forward was his mother, glowing with joy as she proudly introduced Poornima to a line of relatives. “This is our daughter-in-law, Poornima. She’s family now.” Every word carried pride, every smile genuine.

Poornima bowed respectfully, accepting their warmth with folded hands. Her parents stood in the crowd, eyes misty, watching their daughter step into her new world.

But then Veeresh’s hand found her wrist, and he led her away — toward the cluster of his business associates. The men who feared him, respected him, whispered his name like it was a warning.

“This is my wife, Poornima Rathore,” Veeresh announced, his tone firm, leaving no space for questions.

For the first time, she looked into their cold, scrutinizing gazes… and spoke softly, politely, her words steady yet humble. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The businessmen exchanged glances, surprised by her poise. Veeresh watched silently, pride flickering in his eyes. She was exactly what he had always known — gentle, graceful, yet unshaken in the face of power.

The evening unfolded smoothly. Laughter, congratulations, photographs, music — everything a reception should be. But somewhere in the crowd, Poornima caught Veeresh watching her, his smirk unreadable, his gaze a silent promise:

Tonight, the real story begins.