The next morning, Veeresh and Poornima walked hand in hand with the children to Kendriya Vidyalaya. Aarav rested happily in his father’s arms, while Anaya clung to Poornima’s hand, her small steps skipping with excitement.

Inside the office, the Principal greeted them warmly. “Mr. and Mrs. Veeresh, please fill out this form.”

Veeresh sat down with Aarav on his lap. The little boy tugged at his father’s shirt with tiny fingers.

“Champ, don’t pull Appa’s shirt,” Veeresh said, his deep voice gentling into affection.

Poornima smiled softly at the sight before bending to Anaya’s level. “Baby, don’t worry. Just write what Mama taught you.”

Anaya nodded bravely and went inside for her test. She sat upright, her small hands gripping the pencil, carefully writing alphabets and numbers up to 100—just as Poornima had taught her.

Meanwhile, Veeresh filled out the admission form with steady strokes. When it was done, he slid it across to Poornima. “Sign here.”

She signed, and finally, he added his own signature with finality.

Moments later, the Principal returned with a smile. “Congratulations. Anaya has cleared the test. Her admission is confirmed.”

Poornima’s eyes welled with pride. She bent and kissed Anaya’s cheek. “I’m so proud of you, my girl.”

Veeresh stood watching, a rare smile lighting his face. In an unguarded moment, he leaned over and kissed Poornima’s cheek.

Startled, she looked at him, her lips parting—but then a shy smile curved across her face.

For the first time, Poornima felt the possibility of a new chapter—not just for Anaya, but for her and Veeresh too.