---

The music in the mansion had softened to a gentle hum, giving the room a cozy, warm glow. The chocolate cake sat in the center of the dining table, candles flickering softly, casting dancing shadows across the walls.

Veeresh, still flushed slightly from the sit-ups and push-ups, stepped forward and picked up the knife. Poornima’s eyes sparkled as she guided him gently.

> “Go ahead, Ruby’s husband,” she teased, her tone playful but filled with pride.

Veeresh smirked, the dark glint in his eyes softening as he pressed the knife down, slicing the cake with precision. He lifted the first piece and handed it to Poornima, who smiled brightly and set about distributing the rest to the guards who were always by his side.

> “Here,” she said cheerfully, offering a piece to each guard. “Thank you for always keeping him… and me, safe.”

The guards exchanged surprised glances but accepted the cake with respect and a quiet smile. Even in their world, this domestic, simple gesture brought warmth, a rare light in the shadow of Veeresh Deewan’s empire.

Veeresh observed quietly as Poornima moved gracefully around the room, distributing the cake and exchanging small words of thanks with everyone. There was something intoxicating about the way she could command attention without demanding it, even among men who feared him.

Finally, he took a small piece for himself, savoring the sweetness — and the sight of Ruby smiling, happy, in her element. A rare, soft chuckle escaped him.

> “You really planned this… simple, but perfect,” he said, his voice low, almost private, as he stood behind her.

Poornima leaned back slightly, eyes sparkling, and smiled.

> “Sometimes, simple is the best, Veeresh. Don’t you agree?”

He pressed a finger gently to her chin, tilting her face toward him.

> “Yes, Ruby… and sometimes simple moments remind me of what’s most important,” he murmured, his gaze lingering on her, filled with a mixture of obsession, admiration, and affection.

The room was quiet, the party simple, yet the laughter, the shared moments, and the warmth of her presence had filled it with joy. Veeresh, the feared underworld king, allowed himself — for just a moment — to simply enjoy life with the woman who had claimed his heart completely.