Evening had settled softly over the house, wrapping everything in laughter, and the sweet smell of cake. The birthday decorations still dangled from the ceiling fan, blue and silver ribbons twisting together every time the breeze passed.

Guddu’s first birthday had turned into a full-blown celebration. The house was buzzing with neighbours, cousins, relatives, everyone was there. Music played in the background, kids ran around with balloons, and the elders sat on one side, laughing and chatting over cups of tea.