The long dining table was set with silver dishes, the aroma of parathas and coffee filling the Rathore mansion. Poornima sat beside Veeresh, trying to stay composed as the relatives chattered endlessly.

But soon, the whispers turned sharp.

“Who would have thought the bride would change overnight?” one aunt murmured.

“An unexpected bride indeed,” another chuckled. “From best friend to wife… how convenient.”

Poornima lowered her gaze, her fingers tightening around the edge of her saree.

Before she could say anything, Veeresh’s chair screeched against the floor. He stood abruptly, his glare cutting across the table like a blade.

“Enough,” he snapped, his voice low but deadly. “She is my wife. My choice. And if anyone dares speak against her again, I will not sit quietly.”

The hall fell silent. No one dared breathe.

Without touching his food, Veeresh turned and strode out of the dining room, anger radiating from every step.

Poornima’s heart squeezed. She rushed after him, catching him by the veranda. Gently, she touched his back, rubbing soothing circles.

“Veer… don’t get angry. Please, have breakfast,” she whispered.

He turned sharply, his eyes still stormy, and before she could say another word, he cupped her face and claimed her lips. The kiss was fierce, almost desperate, as though he needed to prove something only she could understand.

Pulling back, his forehead rested against hers. His voice broke softer this time. “I’m sorry.”

Poornima smiled faintly, brushing her thumb across his cheek. “Don’t be sorry.” She pressed a kiss to his forehead, her eyes gentle. “Just… be you.”

He exhaled, finally easing. “Evening. Meet me.”

Her smile widened. “I’ll be there.”

For the first time that morning, Veeresh’s lips curved into a real smile. He pressed one last look into her eyes before walking away, heading toward Rathore Industries.

As she turned back inside, his parents approached.

“Beta, thank you,” his mother said warmly, emotion shining in her eyes.

Poornima smiled shyly. Veeresh’s father chuckled softly. “You didn’t go for work today?”

She shook her head respectfully. “Appa, I’ve taken leave.”

Soon the heavy tension lifted as they chatted casually, Poornima slowly slipping into her new role — no longer just a daughter, but now a Rathore bahu.