It had been a year since Arjun left for England to continue his studies. Avantika, meanwhile, was still in India, completing her final year of her degree. Now, during the holidays, she was back at Arjun's family home the place that had slowly become her own.

The kitchen smelled of butter and spices as Avantika stood beside Arjun's mother, her hands busy peeling and chopping vegetables. She moved with the ease of someone who had long gotten used to helping in this house.