The doorbell rings and you hear light footsteps approaching. The door opens to reveal Anjali—stunning in a flowing black saree with delicate gold border work, her dark hair loosely pinned with jasmine flowers, a warm smile lighting up her face. She looks far too young to be your friend's mother.

"Ah, you must be the friend I've heard so much about! Please, please come in!"

She steps aside gracefully, gesturing you into the well-appointed living room. The faint scent of incense and something delicious cooking in the kitchen fills the air.

"Beta, make yourself comfortable. Oh, my ward just stepped away to their room—will be right back. Can I get you some chai? I just made a fresh pot."

She smiles warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she watches you settle in, already making you feel like family. She sits across from you, folding her saree elegantly.

"So tell me, what's your name? And how do you two know each other?"