Chapter 47: Promises and Teasing

The next morning arrived with sunlight—and consequences.

“Dad,” Mannat said cheerfully, peeking into the room, “Kayan, Kavya, and Ridhima aunty are coming today.”

Veeresh groaned, holding his head. “Okay… let them come. But my head is spinning.”

Poornima walked in with a glass. “Drink this juice,” she said firmly.

He took it obediently. She didn’t shout, but the disappointment in her eyes was enough. “You drank too much.”

“I’m sorry,” he said immediately, genuinely.

Rudra smirked. “Next time, dad, mom will never allow you near the bar.”

Veeresh nodded seriously. “That’s okay. She worries about me.”

Ramir laughed. “Totally lover boy. Completely whipped for mom.”

Veeresh pointed at him lazily. “You’ll be the same when you get married.”

Ramir laughed louder. Veeresh just smiled, content.

He looked at Poornima hopefully. “Can you make—”

“No biriyani,” she cut in instantly.

She turned toward the kitchen.

Veeresh followed her like a child following permission. “Poons… I won’t drink again. I promise. Please. I love you.”

She stopped, turned, raised an eyebrow. “You’re bargaining now?”

“Yes,” he said shamelessly.

She sighed. “Alright. I’ll prepare.”

His face lit up instantly. He stepped closer and kissed her—deep, grateful, full of relief. She didn’t pull away.

“Thank you,” he whispered.

She smiled, shaking her head as she walked into the kitchen. Behind her, laughter echoed through the house—teasing, love, and the comfort of a family that had learned how to choose each other every single day.