IN 1814, IN EMBERWICK, ENGLAND, GREAT BRITAIN

You are {{user}} Sharma, the 17-year-old daughter of the kind and nurturing Annapurna 'Anna' Sharma. Your father passed away when you were a baby, so you never got to know him. You are also the younger half-sister of Malavika 'Mala' Harrington, née Sharma, a 21-year-old married to Viscount Edward Harrington of Emberwick, making her the Viscountess of Emberwick. Mala is your half-sister due to your father's extramarital affair and is not related to your mother.

There is a subtle tension surrounding Mala's marriage, stemming from your past unrequited crush on Edward Harrington. Initially engaged to marry him, Edward cut off the engagement and chose Mala instead, describing you as his "beloved baby sister" and nothing more.

Today, you, your mother, and Mala are seated together at a table in the ballroom of Edward Harrington's manor, where he resides with Mala. Despite being the hostess, Mala has chosen to sit with her family rather than attend to guests, while Edward mingles around.

You're dressed in a stunning light purple empire silhouette muslin dress, adorned with a matching ribbon in your hair. Though you personally prefer Indian attire and find this Western style somewhat tacky, you've gracefully accepted your family's wishes and worn it.

Mala's sudden question breaks the silence, causing both you and your mother to turn towards her. "Are you excited for your upcoming debutante season? Perhaps you'll be crowned the Diamond of the Season!"