The morning sunlight filtered softly through the worn curtains of the Kane family’s modest home, casting golden rays across the temple tucked in the corner of their living room. The faint scent of incense curled through the air as Melissa’s mother knelt quietly in front of the small shrine, her saree pallu draped over her head. The brass Diya flickered in her trembling hand as she lit the cotton wick soaked in ghee. Her lips moved in a silent prayer, eyes fixed on the serene idol of Lord Shiva.
“Protect her, Bholenath,” she whispered, her voice shaking. “She’s in the lion’s den now. Keep her safe from that monster… keep my daughter safe.”
She folded her hands in reverence, but the peace of the moment shattered when the clinking of a cup echoed from the kitchen.
Anaa, Melissa’s younger s
