Chapter: Where She Was Chosen

The decision spread through both families quickly.

In the Devraj house, there was happiness—pure and unfiltered.

Veeresh’s mother smiled through tears.
Devraj held Poornima’s hands and said gently,
“You are our daughter now.”

Ravi looked genuinely relieved.
Inayat clung to Poornima happily, already comfortable with her.

Only the Rathore family remained distant.

But Poornima didn’t mind.

For the first time in her life, she didn’t need their approval.

The engagement was simple.

No loud announcements.
No heavy jewelry.

Just rings exchanged quietly, smiles full of meaning.

Her friends—Neha, Sirisha, and Yashwanth—stood close, beaming.

“This suits you,” Neha whispered.
“Peace looks good on you.”

Poornima smiled back.

From across the room, Veeresh watched her—not possessive, not proud.

Grateful.

Devraj cleared his throat, smiling broadly.

“My eldest son and my younger son,” he announced,
“will be married on the same day.”

The room filled with applause.

Poornima didn’t look toward the Rathores.

She looked at Veeresh.

And this time—
she didn’t feel afraid.

She felt chosen.