The next morning, the courtyard of the Rathore mansion was alive with laughter and music. The haldi ceremony had begun — bright marigolds hung from every corner, and the air smelled of turmeric, sandalwood, and joy.

Veerendra and Pratap, the proud patriarchs of both families, sat together, smiling with pride as they applied haldi to their grandchildren. The moment felt pure — two families, once divided by history, now united by love.

Poornima stood nearby, her eyes glowing softly as she watched. When her turn came, she walked forward with the haldi bowl in her hands. Her fingers trembled slightly, but she smiled as she applied haldi gently on Kavya’s cheeks. “Stay happy, beta,” she whispered.

Then she turned to Anand. He hesitated for a moment, his eyes cold, but didn’t want to create a scene in front of everyone. Without a word, he bent slightly, allowing her to apply the haldi. Poornima’s hands shook, but she managed a small smile before stepping back.

Veeresh then came forward, his calm presence filling the space. He applied haldi to both Anand and Kavya, his voice steady and warm. “May both of you stay happy forever,” he said, smiling proudly.

When he finished, he moved to stand beside Poornima. His eyes lingered on her face, noticing the flicker of sadness she tried to hide behind her smile. “Is everything okay with you?” he asked softly.

Poornima turned to him quickly, forcing a gentle smile. “Yes… everything is fine,” she said quietly.

Veeresh didn’t press further. He simply nodded, standing beside her in silence, both watching their children’s laughter fill the air — a bittersweet moment wrapped in blessings and unspoken pain.