Chapter 42: The Cruel Truth

Poornima had noticed it for days now — the subtle games, the lingering looks.

Sahana was circling Veeresh again like a shadow from the past.

And Veeresh, though cold and cautious, didn’t seem to sense the venom beneath her sweetness.

That evening, Poornima found her chance. Sahana was in the garden, talking on her phone, smiling to herself — that same self-satisfied smirk Poornima remembered from childhood.

Poornima’s steps were firm. Her eyes burned with quiet fury.

When Sahana noticed her, she hung up and gave a lazy smile.

“Well, if it isn’t Mrs. Rajawat,” Sahana said mockingly. “How’s the married life? Still playing the dutiful wife?”

Poornima folded her arms. “Stay away from Veeresh.”

Sahana laughed softly. “Oh? Since when did you start claiming ownership? I thought you loved Pavan.”

Poornima’s eyes flashed. “I did — once. But that was a mistake. Veeresh is my husband now, and my heart belongs to him. So, stop trying to come between us.”

Sahana took a step closer, her perfume sharp in the air.

“You really think he’ll trust you forever, Poornima?” she said, her tone dripping with mock sympathy.

Then she leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper.

“Let me tell you something interesting. The night of Karvachauth… when you were inside talking to your friends… I was the one who dressed like you.”

Poornima’s breath caught. “What…?”

Sahana smiled cruelly, eyes glinting.

“Yes. I wore a red saree just like yours. I went to the garden, and I kissed Pavan. I knew Veeresh would see. And he did. His face, Poornima… you should’ve seen it — the same heartbreak, the same betrayal.”

Tears welled in Poornima’s eyes. “Why would you do that?”

Sahana shrugged. “Because it’s easy. Because you always had what I wanted. Father’s pride. The company. Veeresh’s loyalty. And now, when he doubts you, he’ll hate you again. One small seed of doubt, and your perfect little redemption story will collapse.”

Poornima’s voice trembled. “He won’t believe it. He knows me now.”

Sahana smirked. “Maybe. But I’ve already planted his first doubt. And once Veeresh Rajawat doubts, he doesn’t forgive. You know that better than anyone.”

Poornima’s legs felt weak, her hands shaking. “No… no, you’re lying…”

Sahana touched her cheek mockingly. “We’ll see. When he looks at you with those cold eyes again… remember this moment.”

She turned and walked away, leaving Poornima standing there, her world cracking all over again.

Poornima fell to her knees, tears streaming down her face.

Not again… not when I’ve finally started to mean something to him…