One day, after the house has been sold and Sudha is packing, Sudha is called to the front room. As she recognizes the man who is standing there, her knees weaken. Ashok has come to see her. At first Sudha is angry with him. She berates him for coming to visit her while she is in a condition of social shame. When Sudha is finished expressing herself, Ashok asks her to marry him. He says he has always loved her. Even though his parents tried to marry him off to other women, he never had any interest. He had promised himself that he would wait for Sudha, no matter how long it might take.

Both families are pleased with this arrangement. Ashok’s parents are delighted that their son will finally have a wife. Sudha’s mother and aunts are happy that Sudha’s reputation will be at least partially salvaged.

Over the next few months, Sudha cannot believe how happy she is. She not only will be able to keep her baby, she will also be married to the man who has always been in her heart. They plan their wedding. One night as Sudha is about to get out of the car, Ashok asks Sudha to wait. He has something important to say. He begins by asking her if she believes in honesty between two lovers. Sudha nods. She cannot imagine what he is about to say, but whatever Ashok wants, she is willing to give it to him.

Ashok tells Sudha he is not sure he can love her baby because it is not his. He has talked to Sudha’s mother and aunts and has come up with an alternative plan. Because Ashok and Sudha will need some time to get to know one another, he suggests that after the baby girl is born that they leave her with Sudha’s relatives. In this way, they will have time to set up a house and have a baby of their own. Then, when they have a secure relationship, they might invite Sudha’s daughter to come live with them, as a cousin.

Sudha says she will think over the proposition. Then she leaves Ashok in shock. She cannot believe he has asked her to do this. As she walks into her house, she feels as if a tornado were sweeping through her, tearing up her insides.

Across the ocean, Anju has found a job. She loves her plan and is saving money. Her doctor warns her, though, that she is working too hard. With going to school, studying, and working, she is on her feet too long. She must get more rest and eat better or the doctor will insist that she spend the next few months in bed to protect her pregnancy.