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Later that night, the air in their room was quiet except for the faint hum of the city outside. Veeresh sat at the edge of the bed, still trying to make sense of Poornima’s earlier “punishment.”

She walked in, hair loose, wearing a calm expression that softened him instantly. Her eyes met his, steady and full of warmth.

> “Ruby,” he began cautiously, “you were… jealous?”

Poornima crossed her arms, smirking lightly.

> “I never asked you for an explanation, Veeresh.”

He blinked, surprised by her composed tone.

She took a few steps closer, her voice softening.

> “I know you will not leave me. I trust you. But being me… jealousy is a tendency.”

Veeresh just stared at her — the honesty in her eyes disarmed him more than any gun could.

She smiled faintly and continued,

> “I trust you completely, Veeresh. You won’t leave me, and neither will I. We’re made for each other — that’s why I punished you.”

Veeresh’s lips parted slightly.

> “You punished me… because you trust me?”

She nodded, her smile growing.

> “Yes. Only with someone I trust that much can I be myself — even when I’m angry.”

He chuckled softly, shaking his head in disbelief.

> “You’re impossible, Ruby.”

She tilted her head playfully.

> “And you love that.”

He raised a brow.

> “Tell me one thing — if anyone says anything about me, what will you do?”

Poornima’s tone turned firm, eyes sharp yet loving.

> “Budhu… I’ll only believe you, not anyone else’s words.”

Then, without another word, she leaned forward and kissed him.

It was gentle at first — soft, trusting — but Veeresh deepened it, his hand sliding to her back, pulling her close. The kiss became a silent promise — of loyalty, forgiveness, and a love that even jealousy couldn’t taint.

When they finally pulled apart, both breathless, Poornima whispered with a small smile,

> “Now, that’s my explanation.”

Veeresh smiled back, his heart warm.

> “You win, Ruby… always.”

And that night, their laughter and love filled the mansion — the underworld don and the woman who tamed him with trust.