She woke up to an empty room; she was alone, and a pang of disappointment hit her as she realized he hadn't come. Rising from the bed, she freshened up and sat down again, scanning the room around her-it remained untouched and lifeless, as though it hadn't seen him at all.

Feeling restless, she decided to go out. The night was quiet, and she draped her shawl over her head before stepping out. She spotted Rafia in the kitchen, busily instructing the servants about dinner preparations. Halima quietly took a seat at the dining table, watching the scene unfold. Rafia didn't notice her at first, but one of the women finally caught Halima's gaze.