The next morning, Raichand Mansion was quiet, as if holding its breath, anticipating the day’s events. In the bright morning light, Adhir sat at the head of the table, his expression unreadable, but his eyes spoke volumes. They darted toward Dadi with a piercing gaze as he spoke, “Dadi,” he said, barely louder than a murmur, yet carrying enough weight for everyone to pause. “After breakfast, meet me in study.”

Everyone around the table went still, glancing between Adhir and Dadi. The message was unmistakable. Dadi’s face remained impassive, but a flicker of something hardened in her eyes.