The next morning, Nirmay woke up with a groan, the pounding in his head reminding him of the previous night’s excesses. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the fogginess, and the first thing he noticed was Vanika, standing by the dresser, calmly combing her hair. The sight of her was comforting, but the realization of the time sent a jolt of panic through him.

"Tum itni jaldi uth gayi?" he asked, his voice hoarse as he held his aching head.