Veeresh stood in Rehan’s office, checking his watch.

“Sir, I am leaving,” he said, straightening his kurta.

Rehan smiled warmly. “You can go. Take care.”

Veeresh nodded and left, his mind already on Poornima. The ride to her workplace was quick, the morning breeze ruffling his hair, but his thoughts were entirely on her.

---

The Shopping Trip

Poornima came out of her office, radiant in casual attire, her hair tied in a neat ponytail.

“Ready?” she asked with a small smile.

“Always,” Veeresh replied, and together they left for their day of shopping.

The market was bustling, but for them, it was a private little world. They moved from aisle to aisle, picking out necessities for the house—groceries, kitchen tools, cleaning supplies, and little things that made a home comfortable.

Poornima selected vegetables with care, checking for freshness. Veeresh carried the bags with ease, occasionally teasing her.

“Are you sure you need ten tomatoes?” he asked, eyebrows raised.

“Veeresh Rathore,” she said mockingly, “tomatoes are essential.”

He chuckled. “Of course, my queen.”

At the billing counter, Poornima handed over her card.

“I got it,” she said confidently.

Veeresh raised an eyebrow, smiling. “Next time, you pay?”

She winked. “Yes, next time.”

---

Back at Home

Once they returned, they spent the afternoon unpacking, arranging things, and putting their personal touches on the house. Veeresh watched her with admiration as she placed items carefully, making the space feel warm and alive.

Later, Poornima decided to cook. The kitchen filled with delicious aromas as she stirred, chopped, and seasoned. Veeresh leaned against the counter, watching her with quiet happiness, occasionally offering small suggestions.

Finally, they sat down together, sharing the meal she had prepared. The taste, the warmth, the simplicity—it felt perfect.

Afterward, they decided to watch a movie, curled up on the couch with blankets. Veeresh’s arm rested comfortably around her shoulders, her head against his chest. The world outside didn’t exist.

By the end of the night, they had fallen asleep together on the couch, arms wrapped around each other. Veeresh’s head rested gently on her shoulder, her warmth radiating comfort and peace.

As he drifted off, a soft smile crossed his face.

“Thanks,” he whispered, his voice barely audible, “for being here.”

And in the quiet of the night, wrapped in each other’s embrace, both of them slept peacefully—content, happy, and closer than ever.