Henry and her parents all chuckled, and Amala assumed it had become somewhat of a joke among them.

Henry continued. “Well . . . I honestly don’t know how you ladies can survive in all those corsets and petticoats—especially when the weather is warm. As a gentleman I often feel strangled by the need for a waistcoat and a coat; not to mention needing to wear a tie in public, as well. I figure that at home we should all wear what is most comfortable.”

“I confess I’ve taken to it now and then,” Viola admitted. “There are some days when wearing a sari just suits my mood better, and it is certainly very comfortable.”

“I have conformed on occasion as well,” Oliver said as if it were a grave confession, but it was followed with a little burst of laughter.

“Kat prefers her traditional English wardrobe,” Viola said, “but, then . . . with the exception of Amala, she never did favor anything Indian. I suppose that’s because her memories of India are not good.”

“Each of us has the right to our own opinions,” Henry said. “And Kat has been very gracious about allowing me to make such changes in the household in spite of her aversion to some of them.”

Amala pondered the depth in what had just been said about Kat’s aversion to all things Indian—except for Amala. It was a strange kind of sisterhood they shared, given their unique history.

“I mentioned to Henry awhile back,” Oliver said, “that when you came back, my dear Amala, you might enjoy wearing more traditional Indian clothing that could be more to your liking.”

“I think I would enjoy that,” Amala said. It had certainly crossed her mind many times, but she’d never felt it would be appropriate to ask for such a favor.

“I confess I had Chit send some clothing specifically with you in mind,” Henry said. More lightly, he added, “And I’m certain Kat would be more than happy for you to take what I got for her off of her hands.”

“I hope there’s enough for me to try it out,” Paulina said.

“Of course.” Henry smiled at her. “That would be delightful.”

“Indeed it would,” Amala said, exchanging a warm glance with her aunt and best friend.