The dim lights of Adwait’s home office reflected off the polished floor as Veeresh sat in the leather chair, swirling a glass of whiskey in his hand. Adwait moved silently, pouring another drink, and placed it beside him.

“The syndicate meeting today,” Adwait began cautiously, “they expect you to take Pavan’s place completely.”

Veeresh took a slow sip, eyes dark and thoughtful. “Alright,” he murmured. “Pavan trusted me with everything—his company, his connections, his family… and now, even Poornima. And… I feel my feelings for her are changing.”

Adwait smiled knowingly. “Then move on with her. She’ll notice.”

Veeresh shook his head, voice low and heavy. “I can’t. I’d be cheating my best friend, Adwait. Pavan’s memory… his trust…”

“You won’t be cheating anyone,” Adwait said firmly. “You’re protecting his promise, yes. But that doesn’t mean you can’t allow yourself to love Poornima.”

Veeresh’s gaze dropped. “But… she loves Pavan. How can she ever love me?”

“She already loves the children,” Adwait reminded him. “She loves Anaya as her own, and she treats Aarav no differently. That’s love, Veeresh. She’ll let you in… if you let yourself in too.”

Veeresh leaned back, a faint smile tugging at his lips. “Yes… she treats them equally… she never differentiates. That’s… what’s making me rethink everything.”

Adwait leaned forward. “Then move on, sir. You need someone to lean on. And you know me—I’m always here. Not just your secretary, but… your friend. And yes, your love.”

Veeresh chuckled softly, the first real laugh in days. “You know me too well, Adwait.”

Adwait’s eyes gleamed. “Then don’t hold back. Make your place in her heart.”

Veeresh stared into his glass, then placed it down with determination. His jaw tightened. He would honor Pavan’s memory, yes—but he would also allow himself to love, to protect, and to be the man Poornima could lean on.

Tonight, he decided. It was time to begin their relationship—not just as a promise to a friend, but as a bond of his own choosing.