Vaani and Suchitra were comfortably seated on the couch, talking about random things—from décor to travel and family—when footsteps approached. Karan and André entered the living room, André holding a tray with two glasses of juice while Karan carried a steaming bowl of pasta that smelled heavenly.

Karan placed the bowl on the center table, sat beside Suchitra, a little too close, as if seeking protection already. André sat beside Vaani.