The next morning, the Rathore mansion was filled with music, laughter, and the fragrance of fresh jasmine. Poornima stood quietly near the balcony, watching the decorations, the lights, and most of all—her son.

Anand looked radiant in his wedding attire, smiling and greeting guests with grace and confidence. For a moment, Poornima’s eyes softened. She remembered his tiny hands clutching her saree, his laughter echoing through the halls when he was a toddler. How big he’s become, she thought, her heart swelling with pride.

Gathering her emotions, she walked toward him. “Anand…” she called softly.

But the warmth she expected never came. Anand’s expression changed the moment he saw her. His smile vanished, replaced by anger. “Why are you here?” he snapped.

Poornima froze. “Beta, I just wanted to—”

Before she could finish, his voice rose, sharp and bitter. “Don’t call me that! You’ve humiliated me in front of everyone by marrying him! How could you? You’re supposed to be my mother, and now you’re my wife’s father-in-law! Do you realize what people are saying?”

Her lips trembled. “Anand, listen to me—”

But he cut her off harshly. “There’s nothing to listen to! After my marriage with Kavya, I’ll never keep any relationship with you. You’re no longer my mother. Now… please leave from here.”

Her eyes filled with tears, the words cutting deeper than any wound ever could. She stood silent for a moment, trying to hold herself together. “Take care of Kavya,” she whispered finally, her voice trembling. “And… be happy, Anand.”

Without another word, she turned away, tears streaming silently down her cheeks as she walked back to her room.

When she entered, Veeresh was standing by the window. The moment he saw her face, he frowned. “Poornima… is everything fine?”

She quickly wiped her tears and forced a smile. “Yes… just overwhelmed seeing him today, embracing his new life.”

Veeresh looked at her closely, the sadness in her eyes not escaping him. He knew she was hiding something, but he didn’t press further. Instead, he said softly, “Yes… we should be happy for our kids.”

Poornima smiled faintly at his words, her heart aching yet comforted by his gentle presence.