Roman and Tessa walked toward the front door of his mansion. The eyes staring at them were filled with love and anticipation.

Salima stood at the entrance, draped in crimson silk, bangles chiming as she smiled proudly.

Beside her, a silver tray gleamed with lit diyas, rice, and a bowl of red dye.

And next to her, Nandini stood—elegant, composed, her hair pinned back in a neat braid threaded with fresh flowers.

Roman froze, his breath caught.

“Aunt Nandini.” He smiled.

Nandini’s sternness broke into something warm and achingly gentle.

“Welcome home, Roman.” She smiled.

“Welcome darling.” She said turning to Tessa.

Tessa froze. “Thank you, but what—what’s going on?”...