The morning sunlight spilled into the penthouse, warm and gentle, but it did nothing to ease the tension in the air.

Poornima was ready — neatly dressed, calm on the surface but her heart racing inside. She adjusted her hair, trying to appear composed, but every beat of her heart reminded her of the closeness they shared the night before.

Veeresh appeared suddenly, his presence behind her commanding yet quiet. Before she could even react, he pulled her close.

And then, with a confidence that startled her, he kissed her — deep, intense, and full of restrained passion.

Poornima froze for a moment, shocked at the suddenness, her mind struggling to catch up.

But slowly, instinctively, she melted into the kiss, responding with the same intensity he poured into it.

When they finally broke apart, breathless, Veeresh’s dark eyes bore into hers.

“Finish it… and come back,” he said in a low, husky voice — firm, yet not cruel.

A small, victorious smile spread across her face. She had no words, only a fluttering heart, a mixture of relief, joy, and longing.

Veeresh gave her one last lingering glance before letting her go, turning away as if nothing had happened — though the electricity between them lingered in the air like a quiet storm.

Poornima took a deep breath, wiping away the happy tears that had gathered in her eyes. Her heart was full, her mind racing, yet she felt an unshakable determination.

Boarding the flight, she leaned back in her seat, still smiling, her thoughts entirely on him.

Our first kiss… after everything, she whispered softly to herself.

I will finish everything quickly and come back to your arms, Veeresh.

And as the plane soared into the skies above London, her heart soared with it — carrying hope, love, and the promise of a future she was determined to fight for.