As the night winded up, they drifted in deep slumber around the extinguished bonfire. Some logs burnt in quiet, smoking red, resembling smouldering embers as the night turned cold and quiet. Aayan’s head rested on Tara’s lap as her own head rested on him and they slept, uncomfortable yet finding peace in each other’s presence engulfed in silence. Abhirath and Kriti nestled up in a white cashmere shawl wrapped messily around them which Abhirath initially gave to her when the weather suddenly went chilly during their game. Niti and Rishi also found a place around and laid uncomfortably yet unbothered in deep sleep as exhaustion washed over them and they found comfort in chaos.

The sun climbed high over the horizon, casting a golden light all over, brightening the world of despair. They decided to have a tour of the villa and relax at the poolside. Kriti was nowhere to be seen from the time they woke up and they called her numerous times but she didn’t answer. Instead, she sent a half-assuring text saying,