A few days later, the stifling silence of the Shekhawat mansion was broken by the high-pitched laughter, clinking crystal glasses, and heavy scent of expensive French perfumes. With Dev spending late nights at the office, Priya had hosted a small afternoon gathering for her closest circle of high-society friends in the grand, air-conditioned living room.

Piya moved silently like a shadow between the plush velvet sofas, carrying a silver tray laden with bowls of premium, artisanal vanilla-bean ice cream. She kept her head lowered, but her ears were wide open, burning with every word the glamorous women spoke.