Mona didn't answer. There was enough hostility in her face without putting it into words, and Pa saw it. It wasn't because of anything he had done. It was because he had not forced us to do anything. It was because we had spent an hour in the court of our own free will, and we would do it again tomorrow.
-- Gopi (Chapter One)

Importance: In this poignant moment, the unspoken tension between Mona and Pa reveals the depth of their family dynamics. The quote captures Mona's silent resentment, laden with the weight of expectations and unspoken emotions. The hostility in her expression speaks volumes about the underlying conflict between her desires and the choices she feels compelled to make. Pa's recognition of this hostility underscores his acute understanding of his daughters' autonomy and agency. The passage highlights the significance of individual choice within the context of family dynamics, emphasizing that the sisters' dedication...