Chapter 54

Wrapped in Confidence

Morning in London felt softer that day.

Poornima woke up early, the quiet sunlight falling through the large glass windows of the penthouse. She freshened up and went to the kitchen, preparing simple idli and coconut chutney — a small piece of India in a foreign land.

She woke Inayat gently, bathed her, dressed her in a pretty frock, and made her drink milk with little scoldings and kisses in between. Then she went to Veeresh with a cup of tea.

He opened his eyes slowly when she called him.

The first thing he saw was her.

He freshened up, and the three of them sat together for breakfast. No phones. No rush. Just quiet conversation and soft laughter.

Later they sat in the lawn, London breeze brushing against them. Veeresh leaned back in his chair watching Poornima and Inayat play, his heart feeling fuller than it had in years.

By evening, it was time for the party.

Poornima wore a saree — elegant, graceful — but her seven-month belly was clearly visible. She stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the pleats again and again.

“Veer… I’m not coming. You please attend the party,” she said softly, insecurity slipping into her voice.

He didn’t respond immediately.

Instead, walked toward her quietly.

Without a word, he adjusted her saree pallu properly, pinned it neatly, and stepped back to look at her fully. His gaze was not critical — it was proud.

“Don’t feel insecure,” he said gently. “You look beautiful.”

Not because he had to say it.

Because he meant it.

He held her hand and squeezed it — reassurance without drama.

Then he kissed her cheek softly.

“Let’s go, Kincsem.”

That name melted her fear instantly.

She smiled, this time with confidence. He picked up Inayat in one arm and held Poornima’s hand with the other.

As they walked out together, she realized something — he wasn’t taking her to the party.

He was presenting her to the world.

One line:
Usne uski saree nahi, uska bharosa theek kiya.