The grand halls of the Mewar Palace glittered under crystal chandeliers, alive with the hum of conversation and the rustle of silk. Today was meant to be about Meera—Veeresh’s elder daughter—and her potential match. Both families had gathered, with the royal astrologer summoned to check the kundalis and ensure a prosperous alliance.

Poornima stood quietly to the side, observing the proceedings, her fingers fidgeting nervously with the edge of her dupatta. She had expected nothing to involve her—but fate, as always, had a cruel sense of humor.

The astrologer scanned the charts, murmuring softly. Veeresh’s parents leaned forward, hopeful, only to frown in confusion. “The kundalis… they don’t match,” Veeresh’s mother said, disappointment lacing her voice.

Poornima felt a small flicker of relief. That meant nothing for her, of course—she wasn’t involved. But then, her heart stopped.

Veeresh’s parents’ gaze shifted toward her. “Poornima,” his father said carefully, “we would like to see your kundali matched for our son.”

Poornima froze, her hand clutching her dupatta. Shock rooted her to the spot. “M-me?” she stammered, voice barely audible.

Veeresh, standing a few steps away, allowed himself a small, almost imperceptible smile. He knew exactly what his parents were doing—and the idea of it made a dangerous thrill ripple through him.

The astrologer motioned for her to step forward. Charts were placed, calculations made, and then… silence.

“This,” the astrologer said, pointing to the charts, “is a perfect match. You are meant to be together—forever.”

A gasp echoed softly through the room. Poornima’s mind raced. No… no, I can’t…

She opened her mouth to protest, to speak the word that would stop this madness, but Veeresh was already at her side. Before she could say anything, he gently took her hand and slipped a ring onto her finger.

“Mrs. Raj soon,” he murmured, dark eyes gleaming with mischief and command. “My enemy… soon to be mine forever.”

Poornima’s eyes widened, her voice caught in her throat. She glanced at her parents, and her heart sank. Their expressions were cold, unforgiving—their disappointment was clear. They would throw her out for defying expectations, for crossing paths with Veeresh in this way.

She swallowed the lump in her throat, hurt pooling in her chest, but remained silent.

Veeresh noticed the flicker of pain in her eyes, the way she stiffened. He said nothing, though a shadow of concern crossed his face. I’ll ask her later, he thought. But not now. Not in front of them.

The room buzzed with whispers, but Poornima felt as if she were standing alone—caught between duty, desire, and the cruel twist of destiny that had forced her and Veeresh together.

And Veeresh, ever perceptive, knew that the battle had only just begun. Between them, and between her and the world.