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The party continued around them, glittering chandeliers reflecting off polished marble, the murmurs of power and influence weaving through the room like a dark current. Veeresh re-entered the main hall, his presence commanding every whisper to cease — the king had returned.

Poornima, standing near the center, glanced at him and caught his eyes. A soft smirk tugged at her lips. She leaned lightly toward him, teasing in her subtle, fearless way:

> “Back so soon? I was just starting to see who’s trying to steal your attention tonight.”

Veeresh’s dark eyes followed hers, lingering, almost predatory. He stepped closer, lowering his voice just enough so only she could hear:

> “No one looks at you like that. Not in my presence.”

She giggled, brushing a hand against his arm.

> “Oh really? And what if someone tries?”

He didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he subtly shifted closer, his arm brushing hers possessively as he spoke, the low timbre of his voice carrying a quiet threat:

> “Then they will learn the hard way that Ruby isn’t for anyone but me.”

A shiver of excitement ran through her at the protective edge in his words. Poornima tilted her head, laughing softly.

> “You’re getting possessive, Mr. Underworld Don.”

Veeresh smirked, dark and dangerous.

> “You’ve earned it, Ruby. You’ve stolen everything from me — even my control.”

The guests around them noticed the shift in air, the silent tension that surrounded the couple. The mafia don, feared by nations, was softening, tethered by the tiny, fearless woman at his side.

Poornima’s mischievous grin returned, and she whispered, almost teasingly:

> “I hope you’re not going to stare at me all night. You might get jealous.”

Veeresh’s lips twitched, a dangerous smile forming.

> “Jealous? Perhaps. But don’t mistake it for weakness.”

She laughed quietly, running her fingers along the edge of her saree, perfectly aware of the effect she had on him. The playful banter, the flirtation, the quiet dominance she wielded so effortlessly — it was intoxicating, even for the king of shadows.

As the night deepened, Veeresh made a subtle choice. He stood slightly closer, a hand brushing hers now and then, keeping her within his orbit, ensuring no one could approach her without feeling the weight of his presence. His eyes, dark and watchful, never left her face for long.

And Poornima, fearless and radiant, thrived in it, teasing, flirting, and laughing, knowing fully well the effect she had on him.

For the first time, the underworld king and the spirited Ruby were not just in the same room — they were in a silent, dangerous dance of obsession, respect, and desire, watched by the world but owned only by each other.