The scorching afternoon sun filtered through the windows of the Malhotra mansion, casting long shadows in the corridors. The rebellion Ananya had shown at the breakfast table had badly shaken the pride of the men of the house. Especially Vihan, who was playful and a little unrestrained by nature—Ananya’s new “simplicity” and new attitude felt like a challenge to him.

Ananya was in her room. To escape the afternoon heat she was wearing a loose cotton T-shirt and short shorts. Her hair was tied in a bun and she was looking through some old files, perhaps hoping to find more clues about this new life of hers. Just then there was a sound at the door of the room.