The weeks following Ishani’s secret admission confirmation settled into a new, carefully balanced routine—one where she reclaimed a small piece of her independence while the Roy household continued its tense dance around the truth of her deception.

Ishani now attended university classes on Tuesdays and Fridays. The first few times were difficult for the twins. Aria would cling to her legs at the door, tears welling. “Mumma mat jao…” Drey would echo, lower lip trembling. Ishani knelt each time, hugging them tightly, kissing their cheeks, explaining gently: “Mumma ko thodi padhai karni hai, babies… jaise tum school jaate ho. Mumma jaldi aa jayegi, aur phir hum saath mein khelenge.” She promised stories, cookies, extra hugs upon return. Slowly, they understood—Mumma had to go, just like Papa. It disappointed Virat deeply; he had hoped the children’s attachment would keep her homebound, tethered. But he said nothing, watching silently as she waved goodbye, her simple jeans and kurti a stark contrast to the sarees she once wore as his wife.