Chapter 43 — Morning at Dreewan Mansion

Morning sunlight filtered softly through the tall windows of the Dreewan mansion, touching the polished floors with a warm glow.

Poornima woke up feeling unusually calm.

No heaviness in her chest.

No panic lingering in the background.

Just quiet.

She freshened up, changed into a simple outfit, and stepped out of the room slowly, still adjusting to the unfamiliar comfort of this place.

As she walked downstairs, she heard soft prayers coming from the living area.

Mrs. Dreewan was standing near a small prayer setup, her eyes closed, hands folded, whispering quietly.

“Just give her peace… only good things for Poornima.”

There was something deeply gentle in her voice.

Poornima paused for a moment, watching silently.

For the first time in a long time, she didn’t feel watched, judged, or controlled.

Only… cared for.

A small, soft smile formed on her lips.

She stepped forward slowly.

“Good morning, Mumma,” she said gently.

Mrs. Dreewan opened her eyes immediately and smiled warmly.

“Good morning, beta.”

That word—beta—didn’t feel strange here.

It felt natural.

Mrs. Dreewan gestured toward the kitchen. “Come, let’s prepare breakfast together.”

Poornima blinked slightly, then nodded.

“Okay.”

They walked into the kitchen side by side.

It was simple, nothing grand—just a normal morning routine. The smell of coffee, fresh bread, and spices filled the air as they moved around comfortably.

Mrs. Dreewan showed her where things were kept, chatting softly while Poornima listened and helped without hesitation.

There was no pressure.

No fear.

Just quiet companionship.

For a brief moment, Poornima felt something unfamiliar settle in her chest.

Belonging.

And somewhere upstairs, Veeresh stood at the doorway of his room, silently watching the scene unfold from a distance.

Not interrupting.

Just observing.

Because even Salvatore Dreewan knew—

peace like this was fragile… and temporary.