Chapter 23, Cholistan Summary

After the wedding, all the relatives return to the desert. When Sharma is almost ready to leave, she gives Shabanu some advice. She tells Shabanu not to make "silly mistakes." She tells Shabanu she watched Rahim-sahib at the wedding and he seems to truly be in love with her. She promises to help Shabanu stay strong and healthy when she is having babies so he will continue to want her. Sharma's final advice is: "Keep your wits about you. Trust yourself. Keep your inner reserves hidden. You know where to find me if you need me."

Shabanu and her family return to Cholistan, and along the way, Dadi falls off Xhush Dil, making them laugh. They all miss Phulan. When they arrive home, rain is falling, a good omen. Things look more like they used to than after the sand storm...