Chapter 31: The First Thank You

That afternoon, Poornima was in her room arranging her clothes and books neatly in the cupboard.

The room was peaceful.

Just then, there was a gentle knock on the door.

Knock... Knock...

Poornima: "Yes, come in."

The door opened slowly.

To her surprise, it was Yash.

He stood at the doorway with his hands in his pockets.

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Then Yash cleared his throat.

Yash: "Mrs. Rathore..."

Poornima looked at him and smiled politely.

Poornima: "Yes, Yash?"

He looked slightly uncomfortable.

Yash: "I... just wanted to say thank you."

She looked at him with surprise.

Yash: "The kheer was really good."

A faint smile appeared on his face.

Yash: "It was exactly the right sweetness."

He hesitated before continuing.

Yash: "And... thank you for not adding dry fruits."

Poornima smiled warmly.

Poornima: "You're welcome."

She then said gently,

Poornima: "Yash, I actually didn't know about your allergy."

Yash looked at her.

Poornima: "Your Appa told me this morning."

She smiled softly.

Poornima: "He asked me to keep a separate bowl for you and Aarav."

Yash was silent for a moment.

A small smile crossed his face.

Yash: "Still... thank you."

Poornima nodded.

Poornima: "Take care of yourself, okay?"

Yash gave a slight nod.

Without saying anything more, he turned around and quietly walked away.

As the door closed behind him, Poornima smiled to herself.

It wasn't a long conversation.

It wasn't an emotional one.

But it was the first time Yash had come to her room on his own...

And the first time he had thanked her.