The palace came alive with soft chants and the clinking of vessels as the sun rose. Poornima woke up early, her mind still restless from the previous night, and draped herself in a simple green saree. She adjusted her veil lightly and walked down the marble staircase to greet her new in-laws.

Sharada, sitting in the courtyard with the morning aarti thali, looked up and smiled warmly. “Poornima beta, can you cook? This evening, our relatives are coming for dinner.”

Poornima nodded softly, her tone respectful. “Yes, Maa… I can.”

Sharada’s face lit up, her affection clear. “Good, come—I’ll guide you through the palace kitchen. You must know how we prepare for such occasions.”

Just then, Veeresh descended the staircase, crisp in his suit, ready for office. His sharp gaze immediately fell on his mother showing Poornima the kitchen rituals. His expression softened for a second, then hardened back to its usual mask.

“Mom, I’m leaving for the office,” he said, adjusting his watch.

Before stepping out, he glanced at Poornima and made a subtle gesture with his eyes. She understood and excused herself, walking towards him in the hallway.

“What is it?” she asked softly.

Veeresh leaned in, his tone low and commanding. “The auction project is tomorrow. I need you with me.”

Poornima hesitated, her voice calm but firm. “Tomorrow… I already have something planned.”

Veeresh’s jaw tightened. His eyes narrowed, but he didn’t wait for her to explain further. “Fine. Do what you want.”

Without another word, he turned sharply and walked away, leaving her standing in the corridor, caught between irritation and confusion.

Poornima clenched her fist lightly. Why does he never let me finish? Why does he always have to control everything?

And yet, beneath her frustration, her heart thudded faster than it should.