As soon as Kul Purohit Ji leaves, the palace starts returning to its usual rhythm. Some family members retreat to their rooms, others resume their work while Kiyansh has other plans. His tiny hands clutch his Adi Mamu’s shirt as he eagerly waits for his promised gift. On the other hand, Adwait laughs ruffling his nephew’s hair before carrying him away, leaving Kavyansh and Varenya alone.

Kavyansh walks beside Varenya as they make their way upstairs, his hand resting gently on her back, a silent promise of support. The moment they step into their room, Kavyansh heads straight to the closet to change while Varenya lowers herself onto the bed. The instant she does, exhaustion washes over her. Not just the kind that makes her body ache but the kind that presses against her soul, making every breath feel heavier than the last.