The first light of dawn slipped through the palace curtains, casting a golden glow across the room. Poornima stirred against the warmth beside her, her cheek resting on Veeresh’s chest. His arm was draped around her waist, protective even in sleep, as if he feared she might vanish if he let go.

For a long moment, she simply listened—to the steady thrum of his heartbeat, to the peace in the silence. It felt surreal after all the storms they had endured.

Veeresh’s eyes flickered open, lazy yet sharp the instant they landed on her. A rare, unguarded smile curved his lips. “Good morning, Mrs. Raj.” His voice was hoarse, still heavy with sleep, but laced with undeniable satisfaction.

Poornima flushed, trying to move away, but his grip tightened. “Not so fast,” he murmured, pulling her closer. “Last night wasn’t a dream, Poornima. You’re mine—here, now, forever.”

Her heart fluttered. For the first time, she didn’t doubt his words. Instead, she let her fingers brush through his hair, softening him in a way no one else could. “And you’re mine, Veeresh,” she whispered, a small smile gracing her lips.

He kissed her forehead tenderly, a stark contrast to the raw passion of the night before. “You’ve surrendered to me, Poornima,” he said softly, “but I promise I’ll spend my whole life surrendering to you too.”

A knock came at the door. It was Sharada, calling them down for breakfast. Poornima sat up quickly, adjusting her saree, her cheeks still pink. Veeresh only smirked, enjoying her flustered state.

“Don’t think you can hide those blushes,” he teased, brushing a finger along her jaw. “Everyone will see soon enough—you’re mine in every way.”

Poornima rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress the smile tugging at her lips. And as they walked hand-in-hand towards the dining hall, something had undeniably shifted—she was no longer just his reluctant bride.

She was his equal partner, his queen, his forever.