Sitara walked through the massive gates of the Raizada mansion, her feet dragging with exhaustion. The long walk from the college had given her time to compose herself, to wipe away the last traces of tears, to paste a neutral expression on her face. She couldn't let her father see how her first day had truly gone. He would worry. He might even do something foolish, like confront the Raizadas.

She was about to turn toward the servant quarters when a voice called out from behind her.