The silk of the chiffon saree feels cool against Tara’s skin as she stands before the full-length mirror in her bedroom. Her large brown eyes remain fixed on her reflection, but they hold no spark of recognition or self-awareness. Instead, they stare with the emptiness of someone who has long since accepted their place in the world. Veer approaches from behind, his heavy footsteps muffled by the thick rug covering the floor. His hands, adorned with thick gold rings, hover over the sheer fabric before finally settling on Tara’s shoulders.

“Tonight is special, Tara,” he murmurs, his voice a low rumble that vibrates through her body. “A very important client has requested your services. He appreciates beautiful things, and you, my dear niece, are the most beautiful thing I have ever created.”