By the next morning, Adiraj's friends had already occupied the sofas in the sitting room before he made his way downstairs. Pavitra had served them their morning tea, and they had been waiting for Adiraj to come down so they could begin breakfast. Their conversation had once again turned toward the haveli when the sound of the main door opening drew their attention.

A woman walked in through the entrance, an expensive handbag hanging from her arm, dressed in one of the latest fashions from the city. The effortless elegance of her appearance immediately caught the attention of the men seated around the table, their conversation faltering for a moment as their eyes followed her.