Chapter 16: The Unbridgeable Divide

The only one who took the childhood betrothal seriously was my father, still dreaming that I would marry the Sharma family’s daughter.

He clung to the promise like a talisman, even as the rest of the world laughed at the absurdity. Every letter from jail was filled with hope—dreams of dowry, respect, a seat at the Sharmas’ table.

But everyone knew, how could a servant ever be worthy of the master’s family?

The truth hung in the air, unspoken but understood by all. My place was set, and no amount of wishing could change it.

Sneha saw that I didn’t respond, and she was afraid—