Samaira ‘s pov
 
 
It was the eighth day, and he had still not returned. The atmosphere inside the haveli felt suspended, as if waiting for something to break or settle. Tomorrow was the charity event at the Vidhyaditya farmhouse, and the preparations had already begun under the strict supervision of the elder matriarch. According to her instructions, only the most distinguished families of the royal circles would be invited. Even the parents of Inaya were expected to attend, marking it as an event of genuine significance.
Her words from the morning still echoed in my mind.

“Bas yaad rahe, sirf shahi khandaan hi kal yahan honge. Kapdon aur gehno ki boli hogi, lekin shahi choodiyaan sirf tum sambhalogi.”
(Just remember, only the royal families will be here tomorrow. There will be bidding for the clothes and jewelry, but only you will be responsible for the royal bangles.)