The next morning after the lake swim, I sat cross-legged on Grandma’s veranda, trying to braid my damp hair while the breeze tugged at loose strands. My arms ached slightly from the swim, but it wasn’t unpleasant. It felt like something had been shaken loose in me. Something heavy. But not gone. 

“Pranu!” Sai called, stepping out of Padmaakka’s house with a grin. “Breakfast is ready, and Ammamma's asking why you haven’t come yet. She thinks you’ve started fasting to impress someone.”