บท 12: Chapter 11 - Playing a Part

As soon as the door closed behind them, Vijay engulfed me in a hug."Jagadhaatreyi Malik, you are a bloody miracle!" he exclaimed. "You were brilliant!"

I was certainly quite pleased with my operatic performance. Though, of course, the red-horned figure over my shoulder smirked and mouthed, that wasn't a performance, dearie – that was the truth, exactly what you have been dreaming of.

"No," Firdaus said quietly. "We need more credibility. Uncle Hamir and Aunt Kanak aren't particularly sceptical people. Vijay, get her the ring, and get Latika to draw up an actual power of attorney for me to sign."

"No," I said firmly. "You are not signing over your authority to me, Firdaus. We can keep up this charade for a few days, and if someone gets suspicious, we will send them to your excellent lawyers. We don't need any drastic measures like a power of attorney."

Vijay looked conflicted. "He is right, Jags. Validation would be good."