It was Diwali, and the house was filled with light, laughter, and the familiar warmth of family. Poornima and Veeresh visited his parents’ home early in the morning, carrying sweets and smiles along with them. The house glowed with diyas, flowers, and the comfort of traditions that felt even more meaningful now.

As soon as Poornima entered, her mother-in-law hugged her tightly, holding her a little longer than usual. She looked at Poornima’s face carefully, her eyes soft and knowing. Then she gently pulled her aside.

“You’re glowing too much, beta,” she said with a smile. “Any good news?”

Poornima felt her cheeks warm instantly. She lowered her eyes shyly and smiled.

“Nothing like that, amma,” she replied softly.

Her mother-in-law laughed quietly. “Maybe nothing now,” she said, touching Poornima’s cheek affectionately. “But I feel you’ll give good news soon. This glow doesn’t lie.”

Poornima hesitated for a moment, then shared what had been sitting in her heart.

“Amma… Veeresh isn’t ready yet. He wants kids after a year.”

Her mother-in-law listened calmly, her expression full of understanding. She held Poornima’s hands and said gently, “Don’t worry, beta. Some things happen when we least expect them. Not everything is in our control. When the time comes, he’ll be ready too.”

Poornima felt comforted, her worries easing a little.

“Thank you, amma,” she said sincerely.

The rest of the day passed in happiness—prayers, laughter, bursting crackers, and shared meals. Poornima felt included, loved, and at home in a way she never had before.

Later in the evening, as they stood together watching the lights outside, Veeresh smiled at her and said softly, “I never knew marrying my best friend would make life this happy.”

Poornima smiled back, her heart full, knowing that whatever the future held, they would face it together.