After the deed, Ashok fell into a deep slumber, leaving me exhausted. It was already noon, and I knew I had to get moving. I got up and made my way to the bathroom, where a bucket of water awaited. I took a hasty bath and dressed in a beautiful orange net saree with a deep back blouse. I came back to the room, my hair still wrapped in a towel, and stood in front of the mirror, struggling with the knot of my blouse.

“This is just not working,” I muttered, frustration seeping into my voice. I wanted to finish up quickly and get out of there before Ashok woke up again.