Another Monday morning, and Thulika was already paying for the choices of Sunday night-the choice to binge-watch yet another K-drama, sacrificing her sleep for the sheer thrill of romance, comedy, and twists that now left her bleary-eyed and late. She knew the drill: scramble out of bed, rush through her morning, and hope she'd make it to the office in time. But today, the universe seemed to have other plans.

After a hurried shower, she reached for the neatly ironed shirt and pants she'd set aside the night before, only to freeze. Sitting there in their place was a pristine saree, carefully laid out with all the poise of a silent demand. Thulika didn't have to guess who was behind this wardrobe switch. With a resigned sigh, she made her way to the kitchen, where her maasi-maa, Bhagyalakshmi, was already clattering pots and pans in preparation for the day's meals.