Mahi  life had undeniably changed. The quiet dangerous and intense intimacy with Riyansh had woven themselves into the fabric of her days, a routine she was now accustomed to, if not entirely at ease with.

One day, the new rhythm of their home was abruptly shattered. Riyansh returned earlier than usual, his voice cutting through the familiar hum of the household. "Mahi!" he called out, his tone urgent. "I have to leave quickly. Baba had an accident on his way back, he's in the hospital."