Several weeks later came the special day.
Mrs. Anisha Khan, widely known simply as Mrs. Khan arrived at Sabiha's house in the same black Scorpio with tinted windows, the same two discreet security cars trailing behind.
She stepped out in a deep emerald-green silk saree with gold zari borders, her posture regal, her expression warm but assessing.
The District Magistrate carried herself with the quiet authority of someone who had spent decades navigating power corridors without ever raising her voice.
Noorzadi greeted her at the gate with folded hands and a soft embrace. Mrs. Khan held her daughter at arm's length for a long moment, studying her face.
"You're glowing, beta," she said quietly, thumb brushing Noorzadi's cheek. "Everything is good?"
Noorzadi nodded, cheeks warming just slightly.
"Very good, Ammi. Sahil takes excellent care of me."
