Bharat Kumar stood up from the chair, bowed in deep respect and took her permission to brief his boss. Half an hour later, he walked back from the administrator’s office with the latter in tow. Major Samarth Singh Virk stepped inside the large refugee tent and saw Bibi sitting on a folding chair. He stood smartly to attention. Touched by the army officer’s gesture, Bibi tried to get up. The major took a small step forward and gestured Bibi to be seated. The soldier accompanying him hurriedly straightened up another folding chair. Major Virk took the seat and gently turned it to face Bibi, and what he saw was enough to mesmerize him. Despite her horrendous story, she looked like an angel who had fought hard to free herself from the clutches of a demon. He was having a hard time imagining that she had actually done what had been claimed. Nevertheless, he did not want to be caught staring at her, so he lowered his gaze. His gesture didn’t go unnoticed and put Bibi at ease.

‘Ma’am . . .’ he began in a soft, polite tone, ‘I know how you fought back and taught a lesson to the SHO at Sadali. Honestly, it sounds unbelievable. The cop is nothing but a wild beast. In comparison, you’re a petite and simple mother of two young children. It is difficult to imagine that you put a brutal, heavyweight cop out of action for good, and that too with your bare hands.’ The major paused before continuing. ‘But the manner in which you were hurriedly brought here, under an army escort in a military jeep, without necessary documents, shows that you have definitely stepped on some heavy toes. Besides, one has heard of Balwant Singh and his gracious nobility. I want you to know that it’s my honour and privilege to be of some service to you. We shall make all arrangements to ensure that you’re suitably accommodated in a place of your choice.’ Major Virk paused and looked at Bibi for a reaction and found her overwhelmed. Hearing her father’s name, she began weeping.