The living room was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the constant hum of the news anchor’s voice blaring from the television. The entire family sat glued to the screen, their faces taut with worry and fear. The news channels were airing every minute detail of the hostage situation, showing live footage of the building surrounded by security forces and discussing strategies as if they were experts in counter-terrorism.

Harsh had left an hour ago without much of an explanation, his departure abrupt yet purposeful. Being a Brigadier in the Indian Army, he was immediately summoned as soon as news of the hostage crisis broke out.