As dawn broke over Awaspur, the first rays of sunlight filtered through the dusty window of Tara’s attic room, casting a warm glow on her worn wooden floor. The memories of yesterday’s encounter with Reyansh lingered in her mind like a sweet melody, igniting a flicker of hope that had long been extinguished. She could hardly believe that someone had stood up for her, that she was being given the chance to dance in the talent show.

Yet, alongside the thrill came a gnawing apprehension. The reality of her stepmother’s wrath still loomed large, and she had promised to continue her chores. Tara’s heart raced with the anticipation of the upcoming show, yet the fear of failure and judgment weighed heavily on her shoulders.