Chapter: Quiet Comfort

Veeresh walked into Mannat Inn without announcement.

The place felt familiar now.

One of the workers smiled.

“Sir, madam went to the baking place.”

Veeresh nodded.

“Alright.”

He took his usual seat and ordered the South Indian meals.

As he ate, his eyes kept drifting toward the entrance—

not anxious, just quietly hopeful.

A few minutes later, she came.

Poornima walked in, removed her apron, and sat beside him, not across.

No formality.

No distance.

“How was your day?” Veeresh asked softly.

“It went good,” she replied.

He took another bite, then asked,

“Where did you go today?”

She looked at his plate, then at him.

“Talking while eating is a bad habit,” she said calmly.

“Finish first. Then ask.”

He paused—then smiled.

“Alright.”

He ate quietly after that, finishing every bite.

When he wiped his hands, she spoke.

“I went to the dessert shop,” Poornima said.

“And visited the other restaurants too.

It’s been a long time.”

Veeresh smiled, a little proud.

“Seven days,” he said suddenly.

She looked at him.

“After one week, it’s our wedding.”

Her lips curved into a small smile.

“I want to tell you something,” he said.

“Go on,” she replied.

“Don’t wear mehendi,” Veeresh said carefully.

“I’m severely allergic to it.”

She nodded without question.

“Alright.”

“The dresses will come early,” he added.

“And tonight, I’ll come to your penthouse.”

“Okay,” she said simply.

He stood up to leave, paid the bill before she could protest.

Before walking away, he leaned down and kissed her cheek, gentle and familiar.

“Bye,” he said.

“Bye,” Poornima replied.

As he walked out, there was no rush in her heart—

only calm.

And Veeresh realized something as he stepped into the car—

This wasn’t love built on grand gestures.

It was being built on comfort, respect, and everyday moments.

And that felt stronger than anything he had known before.