Mishti huddled close to Avni on the train seat, her oversized duffel bag and extra sweater on her lap. At nineteen, she was a country girl, her eyes wide and trusting as she took in the bustle of Mumbai's station. Mishti came from a small village near Nashik, a place where the women wore saris in town and the men still plowed fields with oxen. She had never seen a city this big, never imagined towering skyscrapers that touched the sky or crowds that stretched as far as the eye could see.

Avni, her distant cousin, noticed Mishti's nervousness. "Don't worry, it's normal to feel overwhelmed at first. But you'll love living with me and Neil in Bandra. It's a lovely neighborhood by the beach."

Mishti nodded shyly, her long braid falling over her shoulder. "Thank you so much for letting me stay with you while I study in Mumbai. I promise I won't be any trouble."

Avni patted her hand affectionately. "Nonsense, dear. You're family. And Neil is looking forward to meeting you too. He's been busy with work, but he said he wants to help you adjust to city life once you settle in."

Mishti blushed at the mention of Neil. She had heard he was a successful businessman, and though he was married to Avni, she felt a flicker of nerves. "I hope I can make him proud too," she murmured.

Avni smiled warmly. "I'm sure you will. Neil is very kind and helpful. He's always eager to guide the younger generation."

Mishti nodded, not knowing that Neil had already noticed her photo Avni had sent and felt a darker curiosity stir within him. He had sensed the innocence, the vulnerability, and a part of him had begun to plot, though he had not admitted it to himself then, not even in the secret depths of his mind.

The auto-rickshaw ride to Bandra was a revelation for Mishti. The sights, sounds, and smells were so different from her peaceful village—honkings cars, the cacophony of vendors, the smell of street food, and the whiff of pollution. When they reached Avni's building, Mishti gazed up in awe at the tall structure with its gleaming lobby.

Avni led her to the elevator, and soon they were in the spacious 3BHK apartment Neil had bought a few years ago. Mishti stepped in cautiously, her eyes wide as she took in the modern furniture, the huge TV, and the expansive balcony that overlooked the Arabian Sea.

"This is the guest room," Avni said, leading her to a cozy room with a single bed and a small attached bathroom. "It's not as big as the other rooms, but I hope it will be comfortable for you."

Mishti nodded, placing her bag on the bed. "It's wonderful, Avni. Thank you so much for this."

Avni hugged her. "You're welcome, dear. I'm just next door if you need anything. And Neil is usually in his study or the home office, working. Don't be shy to ask him for help too."

Mishti nodded, not knowing the true implications of Avni's words. She would need help— but not the kind Avni imagined.

Over the next few days, Mishti settled in. She explored the neighborhood with Avni, marveling at the beach, the malls, and the bustling markets. She met Neil, who greeted her warmly and asked about her village and family. Mishti was intimidated by his confident demeanor but felt safe in his presence, not knowing the true nature of his interest.

One evening, after Avni had gone to bed, Neil knocked on Mishti's door. "Mishti, may I come in? I thought we could talk."

Mishti opened the door, standing shyly in her nightgown. "Yes, Neil. Come in."

Neil stepped in, closing the door behind him. He looked at her, taking in the innocence of her night-clad form, the way her eyes widen at his presence. "Avni told me you're having trouble adjusting to the city. I thought I could help, as a... guide so from today i will give you tutorial sessions."