The sun began to climb higher in the sky as they returned to the Thakur's mansion. The morning's brutal encounter by the river had left them both exhausted, but the unspoken understanding between them remained. Rani knew what was expected of her, and Shashwat, in his own cold way, made sure his needs were always met.

Back in the Thakur's mansion, Rani went to her room, her body aching. She took a quick shower, trying to wash away the remnants of their encounter, then dressed. But instead of putting on her usual clothes, she stopped, the familiar feeling of dread rising within her. She knew what was coming next.