Annika then approached DD and touched her feet.DD placed her hand on Annika's head and offered a blessing. Annika, looking radiant,smiled back. "You look stunning", DD complimented her, eliciting a shy thank you from Annika.Alex's aunt, joining the conversation, remarked, "lndeed, but beauty won't excuse you from greetings".Annika respectfully touched her aunt's feet, receiving a traditional blessing in return. "May no evil eye harm you," Alex's aunt said, dotting Annika's mascara. "Thank you, Aunt, "Annika responded gratefully. "I need to check on Mother", she added, making her intentions clear. DD insisted she stay, assuring her that it was first Karva Chauth and she needn't lift a finger. Annika accepted the glass of water with a sense of belonging.